Which greenhouse gas has the highest warming potential?

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) possess the highest global warming potential among greenhouse gases. This is primarily due to their ability to trap heat in the atmosphere significantly more effectively than carbon dioxide or other common greenhouse gases. The warming potential of a gas is assessed based on its lifetime in the atmosphere and its efficiency in absorbing infrared radiation.

CFCs can remain in the atmosphere for several decades to over a century, allowing them ample time to exert their warming effects. Their molecular structure is particularly adept at absorbing heat, which enhances their potency as greenhouse gases.

In comparison, carbon dioxide, while prevalent and impactful, has a much lower warming potential per molecule. Methane, although it has a higher warming potential than carbon dioxide, is not as potent as CFCs over a long timeframe. Nitrous oxide also contributes to warming but again falls short when measured against CFCs.

Due to these characteristics, CFCs are considered among the most harmful greenhouse gases in the context of climate change, underscoring their significant role in global warming and the importance of regulating their emission.