What major impact does methane have on climate change?

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that significantly contributes to climate change by increasing global warming. Its molecular structure allows it to trap heat in the atmosphere, making it over 25 times more effective at warming the planet than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. When released into the atmosphere, methane contributes to the greenhouse effect, leading to higher global temperatures and resulting in various climate-related impacts, such as altered weather patterns, rising sea levels, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. This amplification of the greenhouse effect is why methane's role in climate change is critical and is characterized by option B. The other options do not accurately represent methane's role; for instance, while methane does not reduce temperatures, it is essential to recognize the broader implications of its warming effect on the climate system.