Most of the solar radiation that reaches Earth is absorbed. However, the temperature of Earth has not changed dramatically over time, as measured by physicists and geologists.

Question

Which is the main reason that the temperature of Earth does not constantly increase?
A. Earth radiates heat energy to space.
B. Earth's atmosphere reflects the solar radiation.
C. The energy is absorbed and warms only the inside of Earth.
D. The clouds absorb the energy and prevent it from reaching Earth's surface.

Answer 1

The main reason that the temperature of Earth does not constantly increase is:

A. Earth radiates heat energy to space.

This process, known as radiative cooling, allows the Earth to balance the energy it absorbs from the Sun with the energy it radiates back into space. This balance helps to maintain a relatively stable average temperature over time.