The correct answer is (d). Nitrogen is not a greenhouse gas.
Greenhouse gases are gases that absorb and emit infrared radiation. This process is called the greenhouse effect. The greenhouse effect is what keeps the Earth’s temperature at a level that is suitable for life. Without greenhouse gases, the Earth’s average temperature would be about -18 degrees Celsius (0 degrees Fahrenheit).
The main greenhouse gases are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone. These gases are naturally occurring in the atmosphere, but human activities are increasing the levels of these gases. This is causing the Earth’s temperature to rise.
Nitrogen is not a greenhouse gas because it does not absorb or emit infrared radiation. Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere, but it does not contribute to the greenhouse effect.
(a) Methane is a greenhouse gas. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by the decomposition of organic matter. Methane is also produced by ruminant animals, such as cows, and by rice cultivation. Methane is a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.
(b) Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Carbon dioxide is also produced by the respiration of animals and plants. Carbon dioxide is the main greenhouse gas that is causing the Earth’s temperature to rise.
(c) Sulphur hexafluoride is a greenhouse gas. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is used as a refrigerant and as an insulator. Sulphur hexafluoride is a very potent greenhouse gas. It is 23,900 times more potent than carbon dioxide.