Which gas is primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect in Earth's atmosphere?

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. Carbon dioxide plays a crucial role in this effect because it has the ability to absorb infrared radiation emitted by the Earth and re-radiate it back toward the surface. This process helps to trap heat in the atmosphere, maintaining the planet's temperature at a level conducive to supporting life.

Carbon dioxide is one of the most significant greenhouse gases, along with methane and water vapor, primarily because of its abundance and effectiveness at trapping heat. While nitrogen and oxygen are major components of the atmosphere, they do not have the same heat-retaining properties. Argon, although frequently present in the atmosphere, also does not contribute to the greenhouse effect. Consequently, carbon dioxide stands out as the primary contributor to this significant climatic phenomenon.