GEOG 2050 Chapter : Geography
Document Summary
Insolation input-all radiation received at earth"s surface-direct and indirect. ~50% of insolation makes it to the earth"s surface. Scatter-changing direction of light"s movement without altering its wavelength. Absorb-the assimilation of radiation by molecules of matter the conversion of energy from one form to another, heats the earth"s atmosphere. Reflect-insolation (light) is bounced off a surface without being absorbed or scattered. Refraction- change in speed and direction of light. Insolation in the atmosphere encounters gases, dust, clouds, and smoke. Occurs when insolation is not absorbed, but is bounced in all directions. Dust, pollutants, ice, could droplets, and water vapor. At noon, blue light (shorter wave lengths) most readily scattered. At low sun angles, blue light is so scattered that is eventually absorbed, and only scattering of red light is visible. The retention of radiant energy by atmospheric gases, dust, clouds, smoke converted into long wave or chemical energy. Absorption raises temp of molecules, e. g. , in thermosphere and stratosphere.
