Climate change (atmospheric gases): Which of the following is <em>not</em> considered a greenhouse gas? Identify the gas that does not significantly absorb outgoing infrared radiation of Earth's surface. Choose the correct option.
General Knowledge
General Science
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: Oxygen (O₂)
Explanation
Given data
- Ask: Gas that is not a greenhouse gas (GHG).
Concept/Approach Greenhouse gases absorb IR radiation (have strong IR-active vibrational modes). Major GHGs include CO2, CH4, N2O, H2O vapor, O3, and CFCs. Diatomic homonuclear gases like O2 and N2 are largely IR-inactive and not significant GHGs.
Final Answer Oxygen (O₂)