Greenhouse Effect — Mains Strategy

Mains Strategy

Begin with a precise physical statement: “The enhanced greenhouse effect changes the balance between absorbed solar energy and energy escaping as infrared radiation.” Use a small labelled sketch if the question asks for the mechanism, and avoid substituting a list of climate impacts for that explanation.

In the body, distinguish the natural effect from human-driven strengthening, then explain one feedback and one common confusion. Water vapour can illustrate amplification; the ozone-hole comparison can clarify the different radiation pathways. If policy is requested, connect emissions reduction to the underlying physical problem without treating capacity targets, emissions and concentrations as identical indicators.

Use cautious timescale language: the climate system includes storage and feedbacks, so an intervention does not imply an instantaneous response in every measure. A usable conclusion is: “Effective climate action follows from understanding the energy balance and reducing the human drivers that disturb it.” Keep specific numerical claims out unless their source, period and definition are available.