Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Nitrous oxide is a greenhouse gas that is released into the atmosphere through natural processes and human activities. It contributes to global warming and ozone depletion.
Greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in Earth's atmosphere and contribute to global warming. Examples include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
Ozone layer: A region within Earth's stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone molecules. It helps protect life on Earth by absorbing most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation.
Ozone depletion: The thinning or reduction of ozone molecules in Earth's ozone layer due to human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and nitrous oxide.