Understanding Global Warming Potential (GWP)

Global Warming Potential (GWP) measures how much energy the emissions of 1 ton of a gas will trap in the atmosphere over a specific time period, relative to 1 ton of carbon dioxide ($CO_2$). A higher GWP means a gas traps more heat.

GWP Values for Key Greenhouse Gases (100-Year Horizon)

The approximate GWP values for the specified greenhouse gases over a 100-year time horizon, relative to $CO_2$ (GWP = 1), are:

• Methane ($CH_4$): Approximately 28-30
• Nitrous Oxide ($N_2O$): Approximately 265-298
• Chlorofluorocarbon-11 ($CFCl_3$): Approximately 4750
• Chlorofluorocarbon-12 ($CF_2Cl_2$): Approximately 10900

Determining the Ascending GWP Order

Comparing these values, we can arrange the gases in ascending order of their GWP:

1. Methane ($CH_4$): Lowest GWP (~28-30)
2. Nitrous Oxide ($N_2O$): Higher GWP than $CH_4$ (~265-298)
3. $CFCl_3$: Significantly higher GWP than $N_2O$ (~4750)
4. $CF_2Cl_2$: Highest GWP among the listed gases (~10900)

Therefore, the ascending order is $CH_4 < N_2O < CFCl_3 < CF_2Cl_2$.

Matching the Correct Option

This order corresponds to Option 1 (A).