Greenhouse Gases

Greenhouse gases are special gases in Earth's air. They trap heat from the sun like the glass in a greenhouse. This keeps our planet warm enough for plants, animals, and people to live. Without them, Earth would be icy cold. But too much of these gases can make the planet get too warm.

Main Greenhouse Gases

The main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor. Carbon dioxide comes from burning things like gas and coal. Methane comes from cows, rice farms, and trash dumps. Water vapor is just water in the air. Each of these gases traps heat in a different way.

Why They Matter

A little bit of greenhouse gas is very important for life. Long ago, the amount in the air stayed pretty steady. But today, people are adding more greenhouse gases by driving cars and making electricity. This extra heat is warming the Earth. Scientists call this climate change. People are working on ways to make less of these gases.

Fun Facts

• A greenhouse for plants works in a similar way by trapping heat inside.
• Cows burp out methane, which is a greenhouse gas.
• Trees help by soaking up carbon dioxide from the air.

Did You Know?

Without any greenhouse gases at all, Earth's average temperature would be about 0 degrees Fahrenheit, which is way below freezing.