Energy, Insolation & Seasons Review

Front

What is the primary source of energy for Earth's weather systems?

Back

Incoming solar radiation.

Front

What is insolation?

Back

Insolation refers to the amount of solar radiation received by a given area over a specific time period.

Front

How does the angle of sunlight affect insolation?

Back

The angle of sunlight affects the intensity of insolation; sunlight hitting the Earth at a steeper angle is more concentrated and thus more intense.

Front

What are the four main factors that influence the Earth's seasons?

Back

The tilt of the Earth's axis, the Earth's orbit around the Sun, the position of the Earth in its orbit, and the angle of sunlight.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, ultraviolet, infrared, and more.

Front

Which two forms of electromagnetic energy produce the most fluorescence in darkness?

Back

Ultraviolet and x-rays.

Front

What type of surface material absorbs and reradiates the greatest amount of energy?

Back

Dark with a rough texture.

Front

What is the maximum intensity of Earth's outgoing radiation found in?

Back

Infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the warming of the Earth's surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Front

How does cloud cover affect insolation?

Back

Cloud cover can reduce the amount of insolation reaching the Earth's surface by reflecting and absorbing sunlight.