General Science - Physics (Basics)
Which of the following best explains why methane is considered a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide despite its lower atmospheric concentration?
Which of the following best explains why methane is considered a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide despite its lower atmospheric concentration?
hard Q10 of 15
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Understand potency of greenhouse gases
Potency depends on how effectively a gas traps heat and its atmospheric lifetime.Step 2: Analyze methane vs carbon dioxide
Methane absorbs more infrared radiation per molecule, making it more effective at trapping heat despite lower concentration. It has a shorter atmospheric lifetime than CO₂. Molecular weight and abundance do not determine potency.Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options
Molecular weight is unrelated to greenhouse effect strength. Methane is less abundant and has shorter lifetime than CO₂.Final Answer:
Methane absorbs more infrared radiation per molecule than carbon dioxide → Option AQuick Check:
Methane potency = Higher IR absorption per molecule ✅
Quick Trick: Potency depends on IR absorption, not abundance or weight.
Common Mistakes:
- Assuming methane lasts longer or is more abundant than CO₂.
Master "Physics (Basics)" in General Science
Start learning the concept with an interactive lesson.
Want More Practice?
15+ quiz questions · All difficulty levels · Free
Free Signup - Practice All QuestionsMore General Science Quizzes