Part of the Sun's energy that reaches the Earth's surface is absorbed by land and water as heat. The Earth's surface then releases heat back to the atmosphere.
Which of the following is true about this solar energy that is absorbed and released by Earth's surface as heat?
A.
All of this heat escapes the Earth's atmosphere, which keeps the planet hot.
B.
Much of the heat is trapped at the top of Earth's atmosphere to protect Earth from ultraviolet radiation.
C.
Much of the heat is trapped low in the atmosphere and is a major factor in determining Earth's climate.
D.
All of this heat escapes the Earth's atmosphere, which keeps the planet cool.
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1 answer
The correct answer is:
C. Much of the heat is trapped low in the atmosphere and is a major factor in determining Earth's climate.
This option accurately describes the role of greenhouse gases in retaining heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the planet's overall climate.
