The sun continuously radiates energy into space in all directions.Some of the sun's energy is intercepted by the earth.The average temperature of the surface of the earth remains a little above 300 K.Why doesn't the earth's temperature rise as it intercepts the sun's energy?
A)The earth reflects the sun's light.
B)The earth radiates an amount of energy into space equal to the amount it receives.
C)The energy only raises the temperature of the upper atmosphere and never reaches the surface.
D)The thermal conductivity of the earth is low.
E)The heat is carried away from the earth by convection currents.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The earth radiates an amount of energy into space equal to the amount it receives. This is known as thermal equilibrium. The energy that is intercepted by the earth is re-radiated back into space, balancing the incoming energy and preventing the earth's temperature from continuously rising. This balance is maintained through a process known as the greenhouse effect, which involves atmospheric gases trapping some of the outgoing radiation and keeping the earth's temperature within a habitable range.

The Sun Continuously Radiates Energy into Space in All Directions