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Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Solar Radiation, Heat Balance & Temperature- 2 Video Lecture | NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

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FAQs on Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Solar Radiation, Heat Balance & Temperature- 2 Video Lecture - NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

1. What is solar radiation and how does it influence the Earth's heat balance?
Solar radiation refers to the energy emitted by the Sun in the form of electromagnetic waves. It plays a crucial role in the Earth's heat balance, as it is the primary source of energy that heats the Earth's surface. When solar radiation reaches the Earth, it is either absorbed, reflected, or scattered. The absorbed radiation warms the Earth's surface and the atmosphere, while the reflected and scattered radiation is sent back into space. This energy balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing radiation determines the Earth's temperature and climate patterns.
2. How does the Earth's heat balance affect temperature variations on the planet?
The Earth's heat balance is essential in regulating temperature variations on the planet. When the incoming solar radiation exceeds the outgoing radiation, the Earth experiences a net gain of energy, leading to an increase in temperature. Conversely, when the outgoing radiation exceeds the incoming solar radiation, the Earth loses more energy than it receives, resulting in a decrease in temperature. This balance between incoming and outgoing radiation helps maintain a relatively stable temperature range on Earth, preventing extreme heat or cold.
3. What factors influence the distribution of solar radiation on Earth?
Several factors influence the distribution of solar radiation on Earth. The angle of incidence of solar rays, which varies with latitude, affects the intensity of solar radiation received at different locations. The Earth's rotation and its axial tilt also play a role, leading to variations in the duration and intensity of sunlight throughout the year. Additionally, factors such as altitude, cloud cover, and atmospheric conditions can impact the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface.
4. How does the Earth's atmosphere contribute to the heat balance?
The Earth's atmosphere plays a significant role in the heat balance by absorbing, reflecting, and reradiating solar radiation. Certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, act as greenhouse gases, trapping a portion of the outgoing infrared radiation and preventing it from escaping into space. This process, known as the greenhouse effect, helps to keep the Earth's surface warmer than it would be without an atmosphere. However, excessive greenhouse gas emissions can lead to an imbalance in the heat budget and contribute to global warming.
5. How does temperature impact weather patterns and climate?
Temperature is a crucial factor in determining weather patterns and climate. Changes in temperature influence the movement of air masses, the formation of clouds, and the occurrence of precipitation. Warmer temperatures generally lead to the expansion of air, which can result in the formation of low-pressure systems and the ascent of air, leading to cloud formation and potential rainfall. Temperature variations also play a role in the distribution of different climate zones on Earth, with colder regions near the poles and warmer regions near the equator.
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