What best describes the process by which heat radiated from the Earth's surface is trapped by gases in the atmosphere?

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat that is radiated from the surface after it absorbs solar energy. When sunlight reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back into space, while the rest is absorbed, warming the planet. The Earth's surface then emits this absorbed energy as infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, absorb and re-radiate some of this infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping back into space. As a result, these gases help maintain the Earth's temperature at a level conducive to supporting life.

This process is vital for keeping the planet warm enough to sustain ecosystems; without it, Earth would be too cold for most life forms currently present. The term "greenhouse effect" derives from the analogy to a greenhouse, where glass panels allow sunlight in but trap heat inside, offering a warm environment even in cooler weather outside. Consequently, understanding the greenhouse effect underscores its role in climate regulation and the potential implications of increased greenhouse gas concentrations due to human activity.