Earth's Energy Budget

Front

What is Earth's energy budget?

Back

Earth's energy budget refers to the balance between the energy Earth receives from the sun and the energy it radiates back into space.

Front

True or False: An unbalanced energy budget can increase or decrease global temperatures.

Back

True

Front

What is the main source of energy for Earth?

Back

The main source of energy for Earth is the sun.

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 is visible light?

Back

Visible light is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be seen by the human eye.

Front

What happens when Earth's energy budget is unbalanced?

Back

When Earth's energy budget is unbalanced, it can lead to changes in global temperatures and climate.

Front

What is the equation that represents a balanced energy budget?

Back

The equation is energy in = energy out.

Front

What type of radiation is harmful to living organisms?

Back

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

Front

What is infrared radiation?

Back

Infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is not visible to the human eye but can be felt as heat.

Front

What is the role of clouds in Earth's energy budget?

Back

Clouds can reflect sunlight back into space and also trap heat, affecting the energy budget.