Which of the following human activities contributes to the greenhouse effect?

Which of the following human activities contributes to the greenhouse effect?

• A. Conserving water
• B. Using renewable energy
• C. Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and agricultural practices
• D. Planting trees

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights the significant human activities that contribute to the greenhouse effect, which is a critical factor in climate change. Burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to an increase in global temperatures. Deforestation also plays a crucial role, as trees absorb CO2; when they are cut down, not only is this natural carbon sink removed, but the carbon stored in the trees is also released back into the atmosphere. Agricultural practices, including livestock production and the use of certain fertilizers, further contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane and nitrous oxide, which are potent greenhouse gases. In contrast, conserving water, using renewable energy, and planting trees are activities aimed at reducing human impact on the environment and mitigating the greenhouse effect. These actions typically help to lower greenhouse gas emissions rather than contribute to them. This makes the selected answer the most accurate representation of human activities that exacerbate the greenhouse effect.

The correct answer highlights the significant human activities that contribute to the greenhouse effect, which is a critical factor in climate change. Burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to an increase in global temperatures.

Deforestation also plays a crucial role, as trees absorb CO2; when they are cut down, not only is this natural carbon sink removed, but the carbon stored in the trees is also released back into the atmosphere. Agricultural practices, including livestock production and the use of certain fertilizers, further contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane and nitrous oxide, which are potent greenhouse gases.

In contrast, conserving water, using renewable energy, and planting trees are activities aimed at reducing human impact on the environment and mitigating the greenhouse effect. These actions typically help to lower greenhouse gas emissions rather than contribute to them. This makes the selected answer the most accurate representation of human activities that exacerbate the greenhouse effect.