Gases in the atmosphere, known as greenhouse gases, are causing Earth's temperature to rise. These gases let rays of heat and light through the atmosphere. The greenhouse gases trap some of these rays, which heat the atmosphere. While our planet needs a certain level of greenhouse gases to support life, too much can lead to global warming—the overheating of Earth's atmosphere. By understanding how the greenhouse effect works and identifying what pollutants are adding to the problem, we can help prevent the devastating effects of global warming.