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

What type of solar energy has the longest wavelength?

Back

Infrared radiation.

Front

Which gas is NOT a greenhouse gas?

Back

Oxygen (O2).

Front

What percentage of the Sun's energy is reflected back into space?

Back

About 30%.

Front

Which color of light has the longest wavelength?

Back

Red.

Front

What is visible light?

Back

The wavelengths of electromagnetic energy that can be seen by humans.

Front

What is a greenhouse gas?

Back

A gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

Front

Name three common greenhouse gases.

Back

Water vapor (H2O), methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2).

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

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

Front

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

Back

The Sun provides the primary source of energy for Earth, driving weather, climate, and photosynthesis.