Weather: Heat and the Atmosphere

Radiant energy from the sun is crucial for life on Earth, warming the planet and enabling life functions. The atmosphere, including water droplets, dust, and the ozone layer, absorbs and scatters this energy. Clouds and the Earth's surface also play roles in reflecting and absorbing radiant energy. The absorbed energy is then distributed through the atmosphere in various ways.

What is the primary role of radiant energy on Earth?

• To cool the Earth's surface

• To provide light for nocturnal animals

• To warm the Earth and support life functions

• To create wind patterns

Which atmospheric component plays a crucial role in absorbing ultraviolet radiation?

• Carbon dioxide

• Water droplets

• Dust particles

• Ozone layer

How do clouds affect radiant energy from the sun?

• They have no effect on radiant energy

• They only absorb radiant energy

• They absorb and reflect radiant energy

• They only reflect radiant energy

What happens to radiant energy that reaches the Earth's surface?

• It is completely absorbed by ice

• It is only reflected by water

• It can be scattered, absorbed, or reflected

• It is only absorbed by the land

In what ways can absorbed radiant energy be distributed through the atmosphere?

• It remains static and is not distributed

• Only through convection

• Only through radiation

• Through various methods including convection and radiation