Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to global warming by:

Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to global warming primarily by absorbing infrared radiation. When the Earth's surface absorbs solar energy, it becomes warmer and emits this energy back into the atmosphere in the form of infrared radiation. Carbon dioxide molecules in the atmosphere are particularly effective at capturing this infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping back into space. This process enhances the greenhouse effect, resulting in an increase in the Earth's average temperature.

The option that states carbon dioxide transmits visible light and absorbs infrared radiation is correct because it accurately reflects the behavior of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. While it allows sunlight (visible light) to pass through, it significantly interferes with the infrared radiation emitted by the Earth, trapping heat and contributing to the warming of the planet.

Understanding this mechanism is critical in studying climate change since the accumulation of carbon dioxide—a byproduct of various human activities—intensifies the greenhouse effect and leads to higher global temperatures.