What is the phenomenon called when heat cannot escape into space?

The phenomenon where heat cannot escape into space is known as the Greenhouse Effect. This occurs when certain gases in Earth's atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat that radiates from the Earth's surface. Sunlight enters the atmosphere and warms the Earth, but when the Earth releases this energy back into space as infrared radiation, the greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate it in all directions, including back towards the surface. This process helps to maintain the planet's temperature at a level that can support life. Without the greenhouse effect, the Earth would be too cold for most forms of life to exist.

The other options refer to different environmental issues: Ozone Layer Depletion involves the thinning of the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Global Warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average temperature due to human activities, primarily from greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon Footprint measures the total greenhouse gases emitted directly and indirectly by an individual or organization. Each of these concepts is related to environmental science but represents distinct challenges and phenomena.