The temperature increase has been seen considerably in the past 50 years. Human activities have severe effect on the sensitive environment balance. There is an increase in greenhouse gases and their concentration. Water vapor carbon dioxide, ozone and methane are the greenhouse gases which can have an impact on environment. These greenhouse gases work to trap heat energy of the sun. There are naturally occurring greenhouse gases and some are released due to activities humans perform on a regular basis.
- Carbon Dioxide: Atmosphere has carbon dioxide as the natural constituent. The solid wastes, fossil fuels, trees and similar products when burnt releases gases. Part of the released CO2 is absorbed by the plants whereas the rest remains in atmosphere.
- Methane: Transportation has increased the level of methane in the environment. There are emissions from many agricultural practices, livestock and organic material decay at landfill sites.
- Fluorinated Gases: Hydroflourocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride and perfluorocarbons are some strong greenhouse gases which are exposed to environment due to industrial activities. Though released in small quantities, these gases have large impact on the global warming.
- Nitrous Oxide: Industrial activities and combustible fossil fuels contribute to greenhouse gases along with some agricultural tasks.
As these greenhouse gases have the potential to absorb then capture heat, it stores the energy and leads to the greenhouse effects. The absorbing potential of nitrous oxide is 270 times than that of carbon dioxide. Similarly the methane absorbing option is 21 times more than carbon dioxide. With increase in temperature water vapor levels increase. The evaporation of ground water, oceanic water and similar reservoirs is seen. Since centuries a gradual rise has occurred on frequent basis. The measurements and research on water vapor and other greenhouse gases will help in fighting this temperature rise and global warming effects.
