Earth's Energy and Energy Budget

Front

What is Earth's energy budget?

Back

Earth's energy budget refers to the balance between the energy received from the sun and the energy radiated back into space. It is crucial for maintaining the planet's climate.

Front

What is visible light?

Back

Visible light is the range of electromagnetic radiation that can be seen by the human eye. It is a small part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Front

What is the equation that represents Earth's energy budget?

Back

The equation is: energy in = energy out.

Front

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

Back

True. An unbalanced energy budget can lead to changes in global temperatures and disrupt the energy balance.

Front

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

Back

Solar energy can be reflected or absorbed by clouds.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, preventing it from escaping into space and thus warming the planet.

Front

What is global warming?

Back

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

What is infrared radiation?

Back

Infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths longer than visible light, often associated with heat.

Front

What is ultraviolet radiation?

Back

Ultraviolet radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light, which can cause sunburn and skin damage.