Refer to the figure below, showing solar energy absorption by Earth's surface and atmosphere. According to the diagram, the greatest amount of incoming solar radiation is
A) absorbed by Earth's atmosphere.
B) absorbed by Earth's surface.
C) reflected by Earth's surface.
D) reflected by clouds and gases.
E) radiated from Earth's surface as heat.

Question

Refer to the figure below, showing solar energy absorption by Earth's surface and atmosphere.  According to the diagram, the greatest amount of incoming solar radiation is
A) absorbed by Earth's atmosphere. 
B) absorbed by Earth's surface. 
C) reflected by Earth's surface. 
D) reflected by clouds and gases. 
E) radiated from Earth's surface as heat.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greatest amount of incoming solar radiation is absorbed by Earth's surface, as shown by the larger orange bar in the diagram.

Refer to the Figure Below, Showing Solar Energy Absorption by Earth's