The Greenhouse Effect:
The increasing amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air is contributing to the greenhouse effect and subsequently raising the temperature of the atmosphere. The greenhouse effect occurs when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the sun and prevent it from escaping back into space. Carbon dioxide is one of the main greenhouse gases responsible for this effect.

Carbon Dioxide and Infrared Radiation:
Option B states that carbon dioxide absorbs the infrared part of solar radiation, and this is the correct answer. Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted by the sun and other warm bodies. When the sun's rays reach the Earth's surface, they are absorbed and re-emitted as infrared radiation. This radiation is then absorbed by greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, causing them to vibrate and release heat energy.

How Carbon Dioxide Absorbs Infrared Radiation:
Carbon dioxide molecules have a unique structure that allows them to absorb specific wavelengths of infrared radiation. When infrared radiation passes through the atmosphere, carbon dioxide molecules in the air absorb certain wavelengths, particularly those in the range of 13-17 μm (micrometers). This absorption process causes the carbon dioxide molecules to vibrate, which in turn releases heat energy and warms the surrounding air.

Implications of Carbon Dioxide Absorption:
The absorption of infrared radiation by carbon dioxide has significant implications for the Earth's climate. As the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, more infrared radiation is absorbed, leading to a buildup of heat in the atmosphere. This trapped heat causes the Earth's temperature to rise, leading to global warming and climate change.

Other Factors:
While carbon dioxide absorption of infrared radiation is a significant contributor to the greenhouse effect, it is not the only factor. Other greenhouse gases such as methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and water vapor also play a role in trapping heat. However, carbon dioxide is particularly important because of its long atmospheric lifetime and its ability to absorb a wide range of infrared wavelengths.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere primarily because it absorbs the infrared part of solar radiation. This absorption leads to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat and causing global warming. Understanding the role of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the Earth's climate system is crucial for addressing the challenges of climate change and finding sustainable solutions.