A square meter at the top of Earth's atmosphere, aligned perpendicular to the Sun's rays at a distance of 1 AU from the Sun, receives 1,362 watts. Researchers refer to this number, 1,362 watts/m², as the ____________ constant because it has varied by less than 0.2% over the last 400 years.

Question

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This question describes the solar constant, which is a measure of the amount of energy per unit area that is received from the Sun at the top of Earth's atmosphere. It is defined as 1,362 watts per square meter and has remained relatively constant over the last 400 years. The other answer choices (lithium, gravity, and fission) are not related to this concept.

A Square Meter at the Top of Earth's Atmosphere, Aligned