Energy in the Atmosphere

Learning Objective:
Describe the functioning of the atmospheric system in terms of the energy
balance between solar and longwave radiation. Explain the changes in this
balance due to external forcings (changes in solar radiation, changes in the albedo
of the atmosphere and changes in the longwave radiation returned to space)
(From IB Geography Specification 2010)
 Key Words
Albedo – The proportion of insolation reflected
and scattered by the Earth’s surface and
atmosphere.

Earth’s Heat Budget – The relationship between

insolation and terrestrial radiation.

Insolation - Incoming solar radiation.

 Earth’s Energy
• The sun is the Earth’s prime source of energy.
• Earth’s energy is received as incoming short-
wave solar radiation.

Solar -> In
Longwave <- Out
 How much energy?
• The amount of incoming solar radiation
received by the earth is determined by four
astronomical factors:
– The Solar Constant
– Distance from the Sun
– Altitude of the Sun
– Length of Day and Night
 The Solar Constant
• Amount of incoming solar radiation.
• Estimated at 2.35 x 1028 joules per minute.
• Output is variable.
• Sunspot activity affects solar output.
 Incoming Solar Radiation
Absorption Reflection
• Ozone • Clouds
• Water Vapour • Earth’s Surface
• Carbon Dioxide
• Particles of Ice and Dust

Albedo – amount of incoming solar radiation reflected back to space; usually expressed
as a percentage.
 Albedo for Different Surfaces
Different surfaces have different Albedo’s.

Global Average – 31%

Fresh Snow – 90%
Dark Soil – 5%
Grasslands – 25%