👉 Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a greenhouse gas that plays a crucial role in Earth's climate system. It is composed of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms, making it a linear molecule. CO₂ is primarily produced through natural processes like respiration and volcanic eruptions, but human activities such as burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes are the main sources of increased atmospheric CO₂ levels. This gas traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere by absorbing infrared radiation emitted from the Earth's surface, leading to the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming and climate change. Reducing CO₂ emissions is essential for mitigating these impacts and addressing environmental challenges.
