Lesson 1- Solar Energy on Earth

What happens when energy is transferred between the ocean and air?

• To even out temperature differences

• To increase ocean salinity

• To create ocean currents

• To reduce atmospheric pressure

Why is Earth warmer at the equator?

• Because the equator is closer to the sun than the poles.

• Earth's spherical shape causes the equator to receive direct sunlight all year, resulting in more sunlight per unit of surface area.

• The equator has more vegetation, which absorbs heat.

• The equator experiences less atmospheric pressure, allowing more heat to reach the surface.

What happens to thermal energy when it is absorbed by a material?

• The material's temperature decreases as its particles lose kinetic energy.

• The material's temperature remains constant while its particles gain potential energy.

• The temperature of the material increases as its particles gain kinetic energy.

• The material becomes colder as it absorbs thermal energy.

How does the angle of sunlight affect temperature?

• It has no effect on temperature.

• It affects the intensity of solar energy received, influencing temperature.

• It only affects temperature at night.

• It increases humidity levels, which lowers temperature.

What is an example of a high albedo surface?

• A snow-covered surface, reflecting most of the sunlight.

• A dark asphalt road, absorbing most of the sunlight.

• A forested area, which has a moderate reflectivity.

• A sandy beach, reflecting some sunlight but absorbing more.

What is conduction?

• The transfer of thermal energy between materials by the collisions of particles. (Transfer of energy through direct contact)

• The movement of heat through fluids by the movement of the fluid itself.

• The process of heat transfer through electromagnetic waves.

• The transfer of energy through the movement of electrons in a conductor.

Why do coastal areas have milder climates than inland areas?

• Coastal areas are influenced by the specific heat of water, which heats up and cools down more slowly than land, leading to milder temperatures.

• Coastal areas receive more sunlight than inland areas, causing warmer temperatures.

• Inland areas have more vegetation, which cools the air and leads to milder climates.

• Coastal areas are located closer to the equator, resulting in warmer temperatures.

What is the latitude of the equator?

• 10 degrees

• 0 degrees

• 45 degrees

• 90 degrees

What is the significance of the equator in terms of solar energy?

• The equator receives more direct sunlight throughout the year, making it warmer than the poles.

• The equator has the coldest temperatures on Earth due to its location.

• The equator experiences the most extreme weather conditions compared to other regions.

• The equator is the only place on Earth where solar energy is constant throughout the year.

How can students model how the Sun heats the Earth in cold climates?

• By using a flat surface to represent the Earth

• By tilting the angle of the graph paper to 23.5 degrees

• By placing a lamp directly above the graph paper

• By using colored markers to indicate temperature variations