Earth's Energy Budget

Front

What is ultraviolet light?

Back

Ultraviolet light is higher-energy radiation that can harm life.

Front

What happens when solar energy hits light-colored surfaces like ice?

Back

It can be reflected.

Front

What does Earth's energy budget track?

Back

Earth's energy budget tracks how much energy flows in and out of Earth's climate.

Front

What can happen when solar energy hits clouds in Earth's atmosphere?

Back

It can be reflected or absorbed.

Front

How is heat radiated back to space from Earth?

Back

Heat is radiated back to space from Earth as infrared radiation.

Front

What is the significance of Earth's energy budget?

Back

It helps understand the balance of energy entering and leaving the Earth's system.

Front

What are the main components of Earth's energy budget?

Back

The main components include incoming solar radiation, reflected energy, absorbed energy, and outgoing infrared radiation.

Front

How does the color of a surface affect solar energy absorption?

Back

Darker surfaces absorb more solar energy, while lighter surfaces reflect more.

Front

What role do clouds play in Earth's energy budget?

Back

Clouds can reflect solar energy back to space or absorb it, affecting the overall energy balance.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases trap heat in the atmosphere, warming the Earth.