Can you explain me the greenhouse effect?

Greenhouse effect is very important for us to live in or earth. There are two greenhouse effects. One is the natural and the other one is the man-made. Earth’s surface is warmed by the infrared radiation from the sun. The natural greenhouse effect keeps the Earth’s climate warm and habitable. It is a very necessary effect; otherwise the earth’s temperature will be much lower.

Global warming, i.e. the increase of temperature in earth’s atmosphere is from the man-made greenhouse effect. This is due to the increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

The dominant greenhouse gases include:

• Water vapour (about 80 to 90%)
• Carbon dioxide
• Ozone

• Methane
• Nitrous oxide
• Chlorofluorocarbons are the other important greenhouse gases.

Carbon dioxide is the worst greenhouse gas. More than 7.5 million tons of carbon dioxide reach atmosphere from the automobile exhausts, industries, rain forest and other forest burnings and all fossil fuels burnings. It should be reduced drastically by all the nations of the world.

Is it so dramatic increase of 3 to 4 degrees C? Yes, it is very dangerous. In 2050 it is expected an increase of 3 to 4 degrees average in the temperature of earth’s surface. The ice in poles is also no more secure. Many low lying places in the world will be under water. This is also applicable to Maldives.

We all can contribute to reduce carbon dioxide. For example, do not drive your car unnecessarily. Do not eat too much beef. Uncontrolled burning of old tyres and other wastes are crimes against humanity.

What is catalytic converter?

A special filter in a car engine used to lower the exhaust pollution level; it can break down many exhaust pollutants.

The catalytic converters are used to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide. Platinum, palladium and rhodium are used in catalytic converters. Chemical reaction and temperature makes these emission substances to carbon and nitrogen. The emissions are also reduced significantly.

The other problem produced here is the poisonous heavy metal platinum or palladium will be released into the environment.

The fine carbon particles are also dangerous to our health.