Question detail
What is the greenhouse effect and how does it involve short-wavelength radiation from the Sun and infrared radiation emitted by the Earth?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
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Topic
Carbon dioxide and methane as greenhouse gases
Question
What is the greenhouse effect and how does it involve short-wavelength radiation from the Sun and infrared radiation emitted by the Earth?
Answer
The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat. Short-wavelength radiation from the Sun passes through the atmosphere and reaches the Earth's surface, where it is absorbed and then re-emitted as infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases absorb this infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping back into space and thus warming the atmosphere.
Explanation
This question tests the student's understanding of the greenhouse effect, specifically how it relates to the types of radiation involved. It requires knowledge of both the incoming solar radiation and the outgoing infrared radiation, linking them to the role of greenhouse gases.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding the Greenhouse Effect
Students often confuse the roles of short-wavelength radiation from the Sun and infrared radiation emitted by the Earth in the greenhouse effect.
Clarify that short-wavelength radiation from the Sun passes through the atmosphere and is absorbed by the Earth's surface, which then emits infrared radiation that greenhouse gases trap, warming the atmosphere.
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