greenhouse gas: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Yes, water vapor is the most abundant and powerful natural greenhouse gas. However, its concentration in the atmosphere is controlled mainly by temperature, not directly by human activity. Human-caused warming increases atmospheric water vapor, creating a powerful feedback loop.

'Carbon emissions' is a broader term often used to mean emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and sometimes other greenhouse gases expressed in terms of their carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). 'Greenhouse gas' is the specific technical term for the class of gases that cause the effect, which includes but is not limited to CO2.

Methane is more effective at trapping heat molecule-for-molecule than CO2 (it has a higher Global Warming Potential). However, it remains in the atmosphere for a much shorter time (about 12 years vs. centuries for CO2). Its short-term impact is therefore very high.

Yes, through natural processes (like photosynthesis by trees and oceans) and through emerging technologies like Direct Air Capture (DAC). These methods are collectively called 'carbon dioxide removal' (CDR) and are considered essential for reaching net-zero emissions goals.

Any gaseous compound in the atmosphere capable of absorbing infrared radiation, thereby trapping heat and contributing to the greenhouse effect.

Greenhouse gas is usually formal, academic, scientific, journalistic, policy in register.

Greenhouse gas: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡriːn.haʊs ˈɡæs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡrinˌhaʊs ˌɡæs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.