Earth's Energy Budget

Front

What is Infrared Light?

Back

Infrared Light is where most of the warmth that you feel from the sun comes from.

Front

What is Earth's energy budget?

Back

Earth's energy budget is like an equation: energy in = energy out.

Front

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

Back

Solar energy can be reflected or absorbed by clouds.

Front

What percentage of incoming solar energy is absorbed by Earth's surface?

Back

51% of incoming solar energy is absorbed by Earth's surface.

Front

What type of radiation 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 energy in = energy out?

Back

This equation indicates that the amount of energy Earth receives from the sun is equal to the amount of energy it radiates back into space.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

What is the main source of energy for Earth?

Back

The main source of energy for Earth is the sun.

Front

How does Earth's surface affect solar energy absorption?

Back

Different surfaces (like water, land, and vegetation) absorb solar energy at different rates.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases trap heat in Earth's atmosphere, keeping the planet warm.