According to the text, what is the balance between incoming energy from the sun and outgoing energy from the earth called? A.) the global energy balance B.) the earth-atmosphere energy balance C.) the greenhouse effect D.) ultraviolet energy
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
ChatGPT said:
Correct Answer: B.) the earth-atmosphere energy balance
Explanation
The earth-atmosphere energy balance refers to the equilibrium between the incoming energy from the sun and the outgoing energy from the Earth back into space. This balance is crucial for maintaining a stable climate and supporting life on our planet.
The sun emits energy in the form of solar radiation, mostly as visible light and ultraviolet (UV) rays. When this energy reaches the Earth, about 30% is reflected back into space by clouds, atmospheric particles, and the Earth’s surface (especially ice and snow). The remaining 70% is absorbed by the Earth’s surface and atmosphere, warming the planet.
To maintain energy balance, the Earth must release an equal amount of energy back into space. This happens through infrared (IR) radiation, which is a type of longwave radiation emitted by the Earth’s surface after it has absorbed solar energy. However, not all this outgoing radiation escapes freely. Some of it is absorbed and re-emitted by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and water vapor (H₂O), a process known as the greenhouse effect. This helps keep the Earth warm but can lead to global warming if greenhouse gas levels become too high.
When the incoming and outgoing energy are in balance, the Earth’s average temperature remains relatively constant. If more energy comes in than goes out, the Earth warms; if more energy escapes than comes in, it cools. Climate change occurs when this balance is disrupted over time due to natural or human-caused factors.
Thus, the term “earth-atmosphere energy balance” best describes the overall system of energy input from the sun and energy output from the Earth, highlighting the interconnected roles of the surface and the atmosphere in regulating the planet’s climate.
