Solar Radiation Flashcards
How does earth receive energy?
Insolation
What does insolation stand for?
Incoming short wave solar radiation
What 3 things happen when solar radiation enters our atmosphere?
Some radiation gets reflected back to space via the clouds
Some gets absorbed by the gases in our atmosphere
50% reaches the earths surface
Is the distribution of solar radiation equal?
No
Which areas receive high amounts of solar insolation?
Equatorial areas receive nigh amounts of solar insolation
What is the name given to the equatorial areas that receive high amounts of solar insolation?
Surplus areas
Which areas receive the least amount of solar insolation?
The poles
What is the name given to the poles which receive the least amount of solar radiation?
Deficit areas
What is responsible for all weather and climate?
Energy in the atmosphere
What is the earths prime source of energy?
The sun
What happens most of the insolation that passes through the atmosphere?
Absorbed, reflected, scattered.
What % of solar radiation is absorbed by the earths atmosphere system?
68%
What% of solar radiation is reflected back into space from clouds , dust and the surface?
32%
What is the greenhouse effect?
As the ground warms, it radiates energy back into the atmosphere where it can be absorbed
What would the temp on earth be like with out the green house effect?
33°C colder and life on earth would be impossible
