Question

Most of the infrared radiation emitted by the earth in the range of 8-12 μm reaches outer space. which one of these gases is the only one that absorbs ir radiation significantly in that region?

Answer 1

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is the gas that absorbs infrared (IR) radiation significantly in the range of 8-12 μm. This absorption leads to the greenhouse effect and the warming of the Earth's surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

The gas that absorbs infrared (IR) radiation significantly in the range of 8-12 μm is carbon dioxide (CO₂). This gas is a greenhouse gas, meaning it can absorb and emit IR radiation. The absorption of IR radiation by CO₂ molecules in this range leads to the greenhouse effect, where most of the emitted infrared radiation from Earth is absorbed by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping heat and warming the planet.