6.4ab Earth's Energy Budget

Front

What is visible light?

Back

The light you can see from the sun.

Front

How does wind energy relate to the sun?

Back

The sun unevenly heats the Earth causing wind currents.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The process by which gases in the atmosphere absorb and give off infrared radiation. Essentially, it's how the Earth stays warm.

Front

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

Back

True.

Front

What happens when the Earth's energy budget is unbalanced?

Back

It can increase or decrease global temperatures and disrupt the balance of energy in Earth's system.

Front

What is the main source of energy for Earth's climate system?

Back

The sun.

Front

What role do greenhouse gases play in Earth's energy budget?

Back

They trap heat in the atmosphere, helping to keep the Earth warm.

Front

What is infrared radiation?

Back

A type of energy emitted by the sun that is absorbed by greenhouse gases.

Front

How does the sun's energy affect weather patterns?

Back

It causes uneven heating of the Earth's surface, leading to wind and weather changes.

Front

What is the importance of the Earth's energy budget?

Back

It helps maintain the balance of energy entering and leaving the Earth, affecting climate and weather.