What are two major greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere?

The two most significant greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). Carbon dioxide is released primarily through burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and natural processes like respiration and volcanic activity. While CO₂ has a lower warming potential per molecule, its abundance and long atmospheric lifetime make it the primary driver of climate change. Methane, though present in smaller quantities, is approximately 25 times more effective at trapping heat than CO₂ over a 100-year period. Methane emissions come from agricultural practices (especially livestock), wetlands, landfills, and natural gas extraction. Both gases trap infrared radiation in the atmosphere, creating the greenhouse effect that warms our planet.