Chapter 20, Problem 20.38QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for effectiveness of chlorofluorocarbons as greenhouse gas than methane and carbon dioxide has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Greenhouse gas:

Earth receives solar energy from sun, which is in range of wavelength between $\text{100 and 5000nm}$ but only most radiations are in $\text{400-700nm}$(visible region).  On the other hand, earth surface emits radiation of wavelength greater than $\text{4000nm}$(IR region).  These outgoing IR radiations are only absorbed by IR active compounds.  Compounds having dipole moment or its vibrational motion produce dipole moment are IR active compounds.  These IR active compounds are called as greenhouse gas.