Story: Atmosphere

Vibrating molecules

Vibrating molecules

Because of their particular molecular structure, greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide are good at absorbing infrared radiation that is heading from the earth towards space. When they absorb energy the molecules heat up, rotating and vibrating more. They also bang into one another, releasing energy. This animated diagram illustrates the different ways in which carbon dioxide molecules vibrate and rotate when they absorb energy. This process heats up the atmosphere.

Using this item

Widener University
Animation by Marty Schultz

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Bill Allan, Katja Riedel, Richard McKenzie, Sylvia Nichol and Tom Clarkson, 'Atmosphere - Greenhouse gases', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/diagram/6142/vibrating-molecules (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Bill Allan, Katja Riedel, Richard McKenzie, Sylvia Nichol and Tom Clarkson, published 12 Jun 2006