Consider the following statements: I. Without the atmosphere, temperature would be

Q. Consider the following statements:

UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I

I. Without the atmosphere, temperature would be well below freezing point everywhere on the Earth’s surface.

II. Heat absorbed and trapped by the atmosphere maintains our planet’s average temperature.

III. Atmosphere’s gases, like carbon dioxide, are particularly good at absorbing and trapping radiation.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) I and III only

(b) I and II only

(c) I, II and III

(d) II and III only

Answer: (c) I, II and III

Statement I is correct.
Without the atmosphere, Earth would lose heat rapidly, and the average surface temperature would be far below the freezing point, making life as we know it impossible.
Statement II is correct.
The atmosphere absorbs and retains part of the outgoing heat, helping to maintain Earth’s average temperature at about 15°C. This is known as the natural greenhouse effect.
Statement III is correct.
Atmospheric gases such as carbon dioxide, water vapour, and methane are especially effective at absorbing and trapping infrared radiation, which helps keep the planet warm.

Answer: (c) I, II and III