To determine the two major greenhouse gases, let's evaluate each option given:
A. [tex]\(CH_2O\)[/tex] (formaldehyde) and [tex]\(CO\)[/tex] (carbon monoxide) - While both of these substances do have some greenhouse gas properties, they are not considered the major contributors to greenhouse effects.
B. [tex]\(NO\)[/tex] (nitric oxide) and [tex]\(NO_2\)[/tex] (nitrogen dioxide) - These gases are primarily involved in air pollution and are precursors to smog and acid rain, but they are not the key greenhouse gases.
C. [tex]\(CO_2\)[/tex] (carbon dioxide) and [tex]\(CH_4\)[/tex] (methane) - Both carbon dioxide and methane are well-known for their significant roles as greenhouse gases. Carbon dioxide is released primarily through burning fossil fuels and deforestation, while methane is produced from agricultural practices, livestock, and other sources. These two gases are indeed the major contributors to the greenhouse effect.
D. [tex]\(O_2\)[/tex] (oxygen) and [tex]\(H_2O\)[/tex] (water) - Oxygen is essential for life and is not considered a greenhouse gas. Water vapor, while a greenhouse gas, is highly variable and acts as a feedback to the climate rather than a direct forcing factor.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is:
C. [tex]\(CO_2\)[/tex] and [tex]\(CH_4\)[/tex]
Thus, the two major greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide and methane.
