Which gases are primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect?

The primary gases responsible for the greenhouse effect are carbon dioxide and water vapor. These gases are crucial because they have the ability to absorb infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, thereby trapping heat in the atmosphere. This process is vital for maintaining the Earth's temperature and supporting life.

Carbon dioxide acts as a significant greenhouse gas due to its ability to remain in the atmosphere for long periods, allowing it to accumulate and intensify the greenhouse effect. Water vapor is also a critical component because it is the most abundant greenhouse gas and plays a major role in the natural greenhouse effect. While water vapor levels can fluctuate, they are often dependent on temperature, leading to a feedback loop that can enhance warming.

The other gases listed, while potentially contributing to atmospheric chemistry, do not play a dominant role in the greenhouse effect as carbon dioxide and water vapor do. Nitrogen and oxygen, for example, make up a large portion of the atmosphere but do not significantly absorb infrared radiation. Ozone, while a greenhouse gas, is less impactful compared to water vapor and carbon dioxide in terms of overall contribution to the greenhouse effect.