Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, trap heat from the sun and prevent it from escaping back into space, leading to a gradual rise in temperature. This phenomenon is causing various negative impacts on the planet, including melting ice caps, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity. The main contributors to global warming are the burning of fossil fuels for energy, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices.