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8 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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What is Insolation? |
It is the solar radiation received in short wave energy at the Earth's atmosphere or surface. |
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Insolation explained |
The reflection is called the albedo, only 52% reaches earth and the rest is reflected (scattered and absorbed). Reflected heat (longwave radiation) trapped in our atmosphere keeps the planet warm (greenhouse effect). 31% reflected. |
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What is the Global Energy Balance? |
A surplus of energy at the tropics and deficit in polar areas. Atmospheric and oceanic circulation distributes the energy, moving it from areas of surplus to areas of deficit (maintains global balance) |
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Atmospheric circulation: the three cell model |
The Hadley Cell: thermally direct (the equator) The Ferrel Cell: thermally indirect (high and low pressure areas between the Hadley and Polar cells The Polar Cell: thermally direct (troposphere) |
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Latitude and Energy Balance |
There's a net gain of solar energy in tropical latitudes and a net loss towards the poles. Tropical latitudes receive more of the Sun's energy than the Polar regions. |
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Latitude and Energy Balance cont. |
Energy is transferred from lower latitude energy surplus ares to higher latitude energy deficit areas by atmospheric circulation. Without atmospheric circulation lower latitudes would get hotter and higher latitudes would get colder. |
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Tropical Latitudes |
The Sun's rays are more concentrated as midday Sun is high in the sky throughout the year. The Sun's rays need less atmosphere to pass through so less energy is lost through absorption and reflection. Dense vegetation absorbs radiation giving it a low relative albedo. |
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Polar Latitudes |
The Sun's angle is lower, rays of energy are spread over larger area and are less intense. Because of the Earth's curvature, rays travel further through the atmosphere and there is more chance of being reflected. In polar regions, snow and ice cover reflect more of the solar radiation= high albedo For 6 months Poles receives no solar energy due to the earth's orbit and tilt. |
