Explain why the total amount of insolation that reaches the outer atmosphere does not reach Earth
Answers
Answer:
Atmosphere is not transparent for all the radiation coming from the sun because of different composition and layers. It is also one of the controlling factors of insolation to reach earth surface. ... The longer the duration of daylight, the more the insolation received per day.
INSOLATION
Insolation is the word for incoming solar energy that is transmitted in short waves. Because of the earth's tiny size and distance from the sun, the quantity of insolation received on its surface is significantly less than that emitted by the sun.
REASON FOR INABILITY OF TOTAL AMOUNT OF INSOLATION REACHING THE EARTH'S SURFACE :
* The quantity of insolation reaching the earth's surface is also determined by the atmosphere's transparency.
* Cloud cover, thickness, dust particles, and water vapor all affect transparency by reflecting, absorbing, or transmitting insolation. Thick clouds prevent sunlight from reaching the ground, whereas a clean sky allows it to reach the surface. Insolation is absorbed by water vapor, resulting in less insolation reaching the surface.
* The amount of insolation at a given location is determined by the angle of incidence, the length of the day, and the transparency of the atmosphere.