Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that is naturally present in Earth's atmosphere as a trace gas. It consists of one carbon atom covalently bonded to two oxygen atoms. While CO2 is naturally produced through processes such as respiration, decomposition, and volcanic eruptions, its concentration has been significantly increased by human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.

CO2 plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate through the greenhouse effect. When sunlight reaches the Earth, the surface absorbs visible light and emits it back as infrared radiation. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) molecules in the atmosphere trap some of this infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping into space and thereby warming the planet. This process is essential for maintaining a habitable climate but becomes problematic when CO2 levels rise excessively, leading to global warming and climate change.

In addition to its role in climate regulation, CO2 is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which green plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert sunlight, water, and CO2 into oxygen and energy-rich organic compounds. However, the current elevated levels of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) are a major contributor to climate change, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable practices to reduce emissions and mitigate their impact.