Which gas is responsible for global warming?

Appeared in: UPPSC 2022

Explanation

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is the most significant greenhouse gas released by human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels.
It has a long atmospheric lifetime, meaning it persists and accumulates, trapping heat over extended periods.
This heat-trapping mechanism, known as the greenhouse effect, is the primary driver of the long-term rise in global average temperatures.
While other gases have a more potent warming effect per molecule (like nitrous oxide), the sheer volume of CO₂ emissions makes it the largest contributor to overall global warming.

Option A: Carbon monoxide is primarily a toxic air pollutant that impairs oxygen transport in the blood. It is not a significant heat-trapping greenhouse gas.
Option C: Although Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas, its concentration in the atmosphere and total contribution to global warming are much lower than that of carbon dioxide.
Option D: Sulfur dioxide's main environmental impact is causing acid rain. It can also form sulfate aerosols that reflect sunlight, leading to a short-term cooling effect, which is the opposite of global warming.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Primary gas responsible for global warming helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Global warming and the associated climate change have significant public health implications, including increased heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues from air pollution, and the spread of infectious diseases.
Nurses have a crucial role in educating patients and communities about the health risks of climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
Advocacy for policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions is a part of promoting community and public health.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concepts in the question: "gas" and "global warming".
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge of environmental science and major pollutants.
Recall that the "greenhouse effect" is the mechanism behind global warming and that certain gases are responsible for it.
Evaluate the options. Carbon dioxide is widely known as the primary greenhouse gas from human activities.
Use the process of elimination: Carbon monoxide is famous as a poison, and sulfur dioxide is known for acid rain. This makes them less likely candidates for the primary cause of global warming.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 51-53

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 1564-1566

Practise the full UPPSC 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.