Atmospheric carbon, particularly in the form of carbon dioxide (CO₂), plays a major role in climate change through a process known as the greenhouse effect.

 Atmospheric carbon, particularly in the form of carbon dioxide (CO₂), plays a major role in climate change through a process known as the greenhouse effect. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Solar Radiation Enters the Atmosphere

The sun emits energy as shortwave radiation (visible light and ultraviolet rays).

This radiation passes through the Earth's atmosphere and reaches the surface, warming the land, oceans, and atmosphere.

2. Earth's Surface Emits Heat

The warmed Earth re-emits energy back into space as longwave infrared radiation (heat).

Without interference, much of this heat would escape into space, keeping Earth's temperature stable.

3. CO₂ Traps Heat in the Atmosphere

Carbon dioxide (CO₂), along with other greenhouse gases like methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), absorbs and re-emits some of the outgoing heat.

This trapped heat warms the lower atmosphere, a phenomenon known as radiative forcing.

4. Human Activities Increase CO₂ Levels

Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas), deforestation, and industrial processes release large amounts of CO₂.

Since the Industrial Revolution, atmospheric CO₂ has risen from about 280 parts per million (ppm) to over 420 ppm (as of 2025).

5. Consequences of Increased CO₂

Global warming: Average global temperatures rise.

Melting ice and rising sea levels: Warmer temperatures melt glaciers and polar ice caps.

Extreme weather: Heatwaves, intense storms, droughts, and floods become more frequent and severe.

Ocean acidification: CO₂ dissolves in oceans, forming carbonic acid, which harms marine life.

Summary:

> Atmospheric carbon acts like a thermal blanket around the planet. As CO₂ levels rise, more heat is trapped, disturbing Earth’s energy balance and driving climate change.

~ NGA Geography