greenhouse gas

[ green-hous gas ]

noun

1. any of the gases whose absorption of solar radiation is responsible for the greenhouse effect, including carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, and the fluorocarbons.

greenhouse gas

noun

1. any gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect

greenhouse gas

1. Any of the atmospheric gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation produced by solar warming of the Earth's surface. They include carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ), nitrous oxide (N 2 O), and water vapor. Although greenhouse gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, the elevated levels especially of carbon dioxide and methane that have been observed in recent decades are directly related, at least in part, to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and the deforestation of tropical forests.

Word History and Origins

Origin of greenhouse gas¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

While capturing methane contributes to California’s greenhouse gas reduction goals, the collateral damage is undeniable.

From Los Angeles Times

This novel method can play a crucial role in tracking greenhouse gas cycles and the effects of climate change and was recently published in the journal APL Photonics.

From Science Daily

Trump may face pressure not to renege on commitments to cut greenhouse gas pollution from other unexpected places.

From Los Angeles Times

They found that the new footpaths encouraged 9% to 27% of the surveyed respondents to walk instead of using motorized transport, which led to a reduction in greenhouse gases and particulate matter.

From BBC

Pakistan is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, although it is only responsible for less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

From BBC