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.
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Sections
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What we have learnt
- 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.
Additional Learning Materials
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