More incoming energy is used at the Earth's surface for ______ at an ocean surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

More incoming energy is used at the ocean surface for latent heat, which is the energy used to evaporate seawater and produce water vapor. This process has a strong cooling effect on the ocean surface, as it requires energy to break the bonds between water molecules and convert liquid water into water vapor. Sensible heat refers to the energy transferred between the surface and the air, while heating or cooling the subsurface depends on the amount of solar energy absorbed by the ocean and the properties of the seawater.

More Incoming Energy Is Used at the Earth's Surface for ______