The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that occurs when certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping back into space. This process helps to maintain the planet's temperature at a level that can support life. Here's how it works: 1. **Solar Radiation**: The sun emits energy in the form of sunlight, which travels through space and reaches the Earth's surface.
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An atmosphere that absorbs and reemits thermal radiation can reduce outgoing energy at a given surface temperature, requiring a warmer surface to balance absorbed stellar energy. The planetary equilibrium temperature refers to the radiation budget, not the resulting surface temperature. Water, carbon dioxide and clouds can alter this balance.