Energy in Earth’s Atmosphere

1. Energy in Earth’s Atmosphere Section 16.1 Section 16.2

2. Energy From the Sun • Almost all of Earth’s energy radiates from the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves • Electromagnetic waves - can move through empty space - classified by wavelength

3. Energy in the Atmosphere • The amount of energy that reaches the surface is affected by the atmosphere • Some sunlight is absorbed or reflected by the atmosphere before reaching the surface

4. Energy at Earth’s Surface • When Earth’s surface is heated, it radiates most of the energy back into the atmosphere as infrared radiation. • Not all the heat escapes back into space

5. Thermal Energy and Temperature • Temperature – the average amount of motion of each particle of a substance

6. Thermal Energy and Temperature • Thermal energy – The total energy of motion in the particles of a substance Teapot and cup of tea have the same temperature. The teapot has more thermal energy because it has more particles.

7. Measuring Temperature • Air temperature is usually measured with a thermometer. Contains a liquid (mercury or colored alcohol) that expands up the tube when heated.

8. Temperature Scales

9. Temperature Scales Converting temperature scales oC = 5/9 (oF – 32) oF = 9/5(oC)+32

10. Heat Transfer • Radiation – transfer of heat by electromagnetic waves • Conduction – transfer of heat by direct contact • Convection – transfer of heat by fluid movement and differences in density

11. Heat Transfer The troposphere uses all three methods of heat transfer