Earth's Energy and Energy Budget

Front

What is the process by which the sun transfers energy to Earth?

Back

Radiation.

Front

What percentage of incoming solar energy is absorbed by the atmosphere and clouds?

Back

19%.

Front

What is the term for the distribution of energy from the sun that heats our atmosphere?

Back

Radiation.

Front

What type of light is higher-energy radiation that can harm life?

Back

Ultraviolet light.

Front

What is the name of the wavelengths of electromagnetic energy that can be seen by humans?

Back

Visible light.

Front

What is the main source of energy for Earth's climate system?

Back

The Sun.

Front

What are the three main processes of heat transfer in the atmosphere?

Back

Conduction, convection, and radiation.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

The transfer of heat through direct contact between materials.

Front

What is convection?

Back

The transfer of heat by the movement of fluids (liquids and gases).

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The warming of Earth’s surface due to the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases.