6.6.6

Energy Balance of the Earth

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Energy Balance of the Earth

There is a balance between heat energy absorbed by the Earth and emitted by the Earth. This balance keeps the Earth at a stable temperature.

Illustrative background for Heat absorbed (entering the Earth)Illustrative background for Heat absorbed (entering the Earth) ?? "content

Heat absorbed (entering the Earth)

  • 340 Watts per square metre of solar energy falls on the Earth.
  • 29% is reflected back into space - primarily by clouds, but also by other bright surfaces and the atmosphere itself.
  • About 23% of incoming energy is absorbed in the atmosphere by atmospheric gases, dust, and other particles.
  • The remaining 48% is absorbed at the surface.
Illustrative background for Heat emitted (leaving the Earth)Illustrative background for Heat emitted (leaving the Earth) ?? "content

Heat emitted (leaving the Earth)

  • Absorbed sunlight is balanced by heat radiated from Earth’s surface and atmosphere.
  • Most heat escapes from areas just north and south of the equator, where the surface is warm, but there are few clouds.
  • Along the equator, persistent clouds prevent heat from escaping.
  • Likewise, the cold poles radiate little heat.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

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