The greenhouse effect is so named because certain gases in the atmosphere act like the panes of glass in a greenhouse. Using this simulation, explain why your car becomes extremely hot inside during a sunny summer day.
The simulation of the greenhouse effect shows how certain gases in the atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide and water vapor, trap heat from the sun and prevent it from escaping back into space. In a similar way, when sunlight enters a car through the windows, the energy from the sun is absorbed by the materials inside the car, such as the seats, dashboard, and carpet. These materials then radiate heat, which becomes trapped inside the car by the windows. This process is similar to how the greenhouse effect works, trapping heat inside like the panes of glass in a greenhouse. As a result, the temperature inside the car can rise quickly, creating an uncomfortably hot environment.
