What is the main gas that contributes to climate change?

The main gas that contributes to climate change is carbon dioxide. This greenhouse gas is produced by various human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas for energy and transportation. When carbon dioxide is emitted into the atmosphere, it traps heat, leading to a rise in global temperatures—a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect.

Carbon dioxide is especially significant because it has a long atmospheric lifetime, meaning it remains in the atmosphere for many years, continuously contributing to the warming of the planet. Additionally, it is released in much larger quantities compared to other greenhouse gases, making its impact more pronounced.

While other gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen can play roles in air quality and other environmental issues, they do not have the same direct impact on climate change as carbon dioxide. Oxygen is a vital component of the Earth's atmosphere for life but does not contribute to the greenhouse effect. Thus, carbon dioxide stands out as the primary gas linked to climate change.