Physics Commons^™

The Changing Role Of Non-Co2 Greenhouse Gases, M. A. K. Khalil

Physics Faculty Publications and Presentations

During the last century, the concentrations of several greenhouse gases have increased considerably - most notably carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. In addition, new, entirely man-made gases have been put into the atmosphere that also cause the greenhouse effect; these include the chlorofluorocarbons. Calculations have shown that during the last century the non-CO₂ greenhouse gases could together be almost as effective as the increase of carbon dioxide in causing global warming. These and similar gases were therefore included in the Kyoto Protocol to develop a comprehensive plan for controlling potentially unfavorable climatic change. Studies show however that the other …