The mechanism that clear atmosphere is nearly transparent to incoming solar radiation but less transparent to outgoing infrared radiation is the basic principle of which of the following?

a. Global warmingb. 3rd law of thermodynamicsc. Greenhouse effectd. All of the above.

Answer: the correct option is C (Greenhouse effect)

Explanation: The mechanism that clear atmosphere is nearly transparent to incoming solar radiation but less transparent to outgoing infrared radiation is the basic principle of greenhouse effect.

The major source of heat to the earth is from the sun. This is transmitted through radiation and is converted to heat on the earth surface. In balance the heat from the sun, the earth in turn emits radiation to space. But some of these radiation are trapped by greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone. These gases send back radiation to the earth causing warming of the surface resulting to greenhouse effect.