In the discussion of Earth's annual energy balance, we saw that Earth absorbed approximately 51 units of solar energy but emitted 117 units of infrared energy. What prevents Earth from getting colder and colder?
Only a fraction of the emitted energy passes through into space. The majority of the energy is absorbed in the atmosphere mainly by greenhouse gases (primarily water vapor and carbon dioxide) and clouds. Much of this absorbed energy is then radiated back to Earth, producing the atmospheric greenhouse effect and, therefore, preventing the cooling of the Earth.
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What carved this U-shaped valley?
A) A rapidly downcutting river
B) A slowly downcutting river
C) Wind
D) Glacier
Why do some organisms have vestigial organs? What will be an ideal response?
How do most salt deposits form?
A. rapid deposition offshore of deltas, like in the Gulf of Mexico B. dense slurries of sediment and water along continental slopes C. conversion of limestone to dolostone D. evaporation of water, such as in restricted seaways
Which of these rivers is an exotic stream?
A. Amazon B. Mississippi C. Ganges D. Ohio E. Nile