The earth's radiative equilibrium temperature is
A) the temperature at which the earth is absorbing solar radiation and emitting infrared radiation at equal rates.
B) the temperature at which the earth is radiating energy at maximum intensity.
C) the average temperature the earth must maintain to prevent the oceans from freezing solid.
D) the temperature at which rates of evaporation and condensation on the earth are in balance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The earth's radiative equilibrium temperature is the temperature at which the rate of energy absorbed from the sun is equal to the rate of energy radiated back to space as infrared radiation. This means that the earth is in balance with the energy it receives and emits, resulting in a stable average temperature.

The Earth's Radiative Equilibrium Temperature Is