the Latitudinal Pattern of Radiation: Excesses + Deficits

Question 1

What does the word ‘insolation’ come from?

Answer 1

• incoming solar radiation

Question 2

Why is their excess radiation in some areas?

Answer 2

• positive radiation budget in tropics
• bc insolation is concentrated near equator

Question 3

Why is their a deficit of radiation in some areas?

Answer 3

• neg. radiation budget at higher latitudes
• bc insolation dispersed over wider area near poles
• • has a larger atmo. to pass through so more chance of reflection back to space (higher albedo) + rays less concentrated

Question 4

Why do regions w an excess or deficit of radiation not get warmer/colder?

Answer 4

• horizontal transfer of energy from tropics to higher latitudes compensate global insolation differences
  
  • takes place by winds + ocean currents

Question 5

What are the temperature patterns from insolation?

Answer 5

• little seasonal variation at equator, but great variation in mid/high latitudes
  
  • due to dec. in insolation from equator to poles + changes in day length
• time lag between overhead sun + max. insolation, as atmo. heated from below, not above
• coldest period after winter solstice as ground continues to lose heat despite resumed insolation
• lag time over ocean > land: due to higher specific heat capacity