The atmosphere is mainly heated by:
- ALong-wave terrestrial radiation
- BShort-wave solar radiation
- CReflected solar radiation
- DMore than one of the above
- ENone of the above
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (a) Long-wave terrestrial radiation
Explanation
After being heated by Solar radiation, the Earth transfers heat in long-wave form to the nearby layers of the atmosphere. Long-wave radiation is absorbed by atmospheric gases (especially carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases). Hence, the Earth’s atmosphere is mainly heated by long-wave terrestrial radiation.