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8. SOLAR RADIATION, HEAT BALANCE AND TEMPERATURE

The chapter delves into solar radiation, its heat balance, and temperature distribution across the Earth. It discusses the processes that govern how the Earth's atmosphere absorbs and redistributes solar energy, emphasizing factors such as latitude, altitude, and distance from the sea. Additionally, the chapter examines temperature variations and their implications for climate.

Sections

SOLAR RADIATION, HEAT BALANCE AND TEMPERATURE

This section covers the principles of solar radiation, its effects on the Earth’s heat balance, and temperature distribution influenced by various factors.

8 Section Overview

Start current section content and materials

8.1 SOLAR RADIATION

The section discusses solar radiation, its distribution on Earth, and the various processes involved in heating and cooling the atmosphere.

8.1.1 Variability of Insolation at the Surface of the Earth

This section discusses how the intensity and amount of solar radiation, or insolation, vary across time and space on Earth due to several factors.

8.1.1.1 The Passage of Solar Radiation through the Atmosphere

Solar radiation interacts with the Earth's atmosphere, where some wavelengths are absorbed and scattered, influencing temperature and weather patterns.

8.1.1.2 Spatial Distribution of Insolation at the Earth’s Surface

The section examines the variability of insolation across different parts of the Earth, highlighting the factors affecting solar energy received at the surface.

8.2 HEATING AND COOLING OF ATMOSPHERE

The section discusses how the atmosphere is heated and cooled, detailing processes such as solar radiation, conduction, convection, and advection, and their effects on temperature distribution on Earth.

8.2.1 Terrestrial Radiation

Terrestrial radiation refers to the heat emitted by the Earth's surface, which is essential for maintaining temperature balance in the atmosphere.

8.2.2 Heat Budget of the Planet Earth

The heat budget of the Earth describes the balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing terrestrial radiation, ensuring a stable temperature on the planet.

8.2.2.1 Variation in the Net Heat Budget at the Earth’s Surface

This section explores how the Earth's surface experiences variations in net heat budget due to solar radiation and geographical factors, leading to differences in temperature and climate.

8.2.3 Temperature

This section explores the concepts of temperature, solar radiation, and heat balance, explaining how the distribution of insolation affects temperatures on Earth.

8.2.3.1 Factors Controlling Temperature Distribution

This section discusses the various factors that influence temperature distribution across the Earth's surface, including latitude, altitude, distance from the sea, and the effects of air masses and ocean currents.

8.2.3.2 Distribution of Temperature

The section explores how temperature varies globally due to solar radiation, atmospheric conditions, and geographical factors.

8.3 INVERSION OF TEMPERATURE

Inversion of temperature refers to the phenomenon where temperature increases with altitude rather than decreasing, which is common during certain conditions such as clear nights.

8.4 EXERCISES

This section provides multiple exercises designed to reinforce knowledge about solar radiation, heat balance, and temperature.

Learning Objectives

  • The Earth receives energy mostly in short wavelengths from the sun, affecting temperature distribution unevenly.

  • Heat transfer in the atmosphere occurs through conduction, convection, and advection.

  • Temperature varies significantly with latitude, altitude, and proximity to oceans, impacting local climates.

Key Concepts

Insolation

The incoming solar radiation received by the Earth, which heats its surface.

Albedo

The percentage of visible light reflected by an object, influencing heat absorption on Earth's surface.

Normal Lapse Rate

The typical decrease in temperature with an increase in altitude, averaging 6.5°C per 1,000 meters.

Heat Budget

The balance between the amount of heat received from the sun and the amount lost back to space, maintaining Earth’s temperature.

Practice Exercises

Total Questions

4

Estimated Time

8 min

Passing Score

70%

Instructions

  • Read each question carefully
  • You can use hints if you need help
  • Complete all questions before submitting