Which of the following contributes to the urban heat island effect?

The urban heat island effect is primarily influenced by materials and surfaces that absorb and retain heat. Dark roofs, due to their color and material properties, absorb significantly more sunlight compared to lighter surfaces. This absorption increases the temperature in urban areas, as the heat is not reflected back into the atmosphere but rather stored in the materials, leading to warmer air temperatures.

In contrast, grass-covered roofs and white painted roofs reflect sunlight and radiate heat more effectively, which helps mitigate the heat island effect. Water bodies typically have a cooling effect on the environment too, as they can moderate temperatures and provide a heat sink. Therefore, dark roofs are a key contributor to the urban heat island phenomenon, as they exacerbate local warming in urban settings.