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Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Solar Radiation, Heat Balance & Temperature- 1 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- 1 Video Lecture - NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

1. What is solar radiation and how does it affect the Earth's heat balance?
Ans. Solar radiation refers to the energy emitted by the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves. When solar radiation reaches the Earth's atmosphere, some of it is absorbed, while the rest is reflected back into space. The absorbed radiation warms the Earth's surface and is re-emitted as heat. This heat balance is essential for maintaining the Earth's temperature and supporting life on the planet.
2. How does the Earth's heat balance influence global temperature patterns?
Ans. The Earth's heat balance plays a crucial role in determining global temperature patterns. Regions near the equator receive more solar radiation, resulting in higher temperatures. Conversely, areas closer to the poles receive less solar radiation and have lower temperatures. The heat balance also influences the distribution of land and sea breezes, ocean currents, and atmospheric circulation patterns, all of which contribute to regional and local temperature variations.
3. What factors affect the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface?
Ans. Several factors influence the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface. These include the Earth's tilt, which causes seasonal changes in the angle at which sunlight reaches different latitudes. The presence of clouds, aerosols, and pollutants in the atmosphere can also affect the amount of solar radiation reaching the surface. Additionally, factors such as elevation, surface albedo (reflectivity), and land cover can influence the absorption and reflection of solar radiation.
4. How does solar radiation impact the Earth's climate system?
Ans. Solar radiation is a significant driver of the Earth's climate system. Variations in solar radiation, such as changes in the sun's intensity or the Earth's orbit, can lead to long-term climate changes, including ice ages and interglacial periods. Solar radiation also influences short-term climate variability, such as seasonal changes and daily temperature fluctuations. Understanding the role of solar radiation is crucial for studying climate change and predicting future climate patterns.
5. How do scientists measure solar radiation and its impact on the Earth's heat balance?
Ans. Scientists use various instruments to measure solar radiation, such as pyranometers and radiometers. These devices quantify the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface. Additionally, satellite-based instruments, such as radiometers and spectrometers, provide valuable data on solar radiation at different wavelengths. The measurements obtained from these instruments help scientists understand the Earth's heat balance and its impact on temperature patterns, climate change, and the overall functioning of the Earth's climate system.
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