The Hot Earth: How Quantum Computing Will Save the Planet ## What are greenhouse gases?

The Earth's atmosphere is made up of a variety of gases, including nitrogen, oxygen, and argon. Greenhouse gases are also present in the atmosphere, but in much smaller concentrations. These gases act like a blanket around the Earth, trapping heat from the sun and preventing it from escaping into space. This natural greenhouse effect is essential for life on Earth, as it helps to keep the planet warm enough for plants and animals to survive.

However, human activities are increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which is leading to global warming. This is because burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and deforestation destroys forests that would otherwise absorb carbon dioxide. The increase in greenhouse gases is causing the Earth's temperature to rise, which is having a variety of negative effects on the planet, including more extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and the loss of biodiversity.

### What are the main greenhouse gases?

The main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Carbon dioxide is the most important greenhouse gas, and its concentration in the atmosphere has increased by about 40% since the pre-industrial period. Methane is also a powerful greenhouse gas, and its concentration has increased by about 150% since the pre-industrial period. Nitrous oxide is a less potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide and methane, but its concentration has increased by about 20% since the pre-industrial period.

### How are greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere?

Human activities are the main cause of the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Deforestation destroys forests that would otherwise absorb carbon dioxide. Agriculture also releases greenhouse gases, such as methane and nitrous oxide.

### What are the effects of greenhouse gases?