Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat from the sun, leading to the warming of the planet. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. They contribute to the greenhouse effect, which is essential for keeping the Earth's surface warm enough to support life. However, human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate change. Research in the field of greenhouse gases focuses on understanding their sources, sinks, and impacts on the environment, as well as developing strategies to mitigate their emissions and effects.