The cloudy nights are warmer than clear nights becausea)clouds prevent...
The cloudy nights are warmer because clouds prevent escape of radiation of heat from the ground and the air.
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The cloudy nights are warmer than clear nights becausea)clouds prevent...
**Explanation:**
**Clouds prevent the escape of radiation of heat from the ground and the air.**
- Clouds act as a barrier between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere. They prevent the escape of radiation from the ground and the air by trapping the heat.
- The Earth's surface absorbs sunlight during the day and releases it as thermal radiation. This thermal radiation is normally able to escape into space, cooling the Earth's surface and the surrounding air. However, when clouds are present, they act as a blanket, trapping the heat and preventing it from escaping.
- Clouds are made up of tiny water droplets or ice crystals. These particles in the clouds absorb and scatter the incoming solar radiation, preventing it from reaching the Earth's surface. This absorption and scattering of solar radiation by clouds contribute to their cooling effect during the day.
- At night, when there is no sunlight, the Earth's surface and the atmosphere radiate heat towards space. However, the presence of clouds prevents this heat from escaping. The cloud particles absorb and re-emit the thermal radiation back towards the Earth's surface, keeping it warmer than it would be on a clear night.
- Additionally, clouds also act as a barrier to the movement of air. This reduces the mixing of warm and cool air near the surface, further contributing to the warming effect of clouds during the night.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'A': clouds prevent the escape of radiation of heat from the ground and the air. They act as a barrier, trapping the heat and preventing it from escaping into space. This results in warmer temperatures on cloudy nights compared to clear nights.