Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. They allow sunlight to enter but prevent some of the heat from escaping back into space. This process is essential for keeping our planet warm enough to support life. Common greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. However, human activities, like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased the levels of these gases, leading to climate change. As more greenhouse gases accumulate, they enhance the greenhouse effect, causing global temperatures to rise. This can result in severe weather, rising sea levels, and other environmental challenges.