The major role of a greenhouse gas that contributes to the temperature rise of the Earth`s surface is described in option 4, which states that greenhouse gases let incoming sunlight pass through but stop outgoing infrared radiation.

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, have the ability to absorb and re-emit infrared radiation. When sunlight reaches the Earth`s surface, it warms the surface, which then emits infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases in the Earth`s atmosphere trap this outgoing infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping back into space. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect.

Option 1 is incorrect, as greenhouse gases are not transparent to outgoing infrared radiation. Option 2 is also incorrect, as greenhouse gases do not stop incoming sunlight completely. Option 3 is incorrect because greenhouse gases do not let outgoing infrared radiation pass through.

It is important to note that while greenhouse gases play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth`s temperature and supporting life on the planet, an excessive increase in greenhouse gas concentrations can lead to anthropogenic climate change and global warming.