Which explains the differences in the distribution of solar energy on Earth’s surface?(1 point)
Responses
Earth’s curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the sun’s rays to fall evenly on its surface.
Earth’s curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the sun’s rays to fall evenly on its surface.
Earth’s climate system determines how much energy is absorbed from the sun.
Earth’s climate system determines how much energy is absorbed from the sun.
Earth’s solar energy is dependent on air currents.
Earth’s solar energy is dependent on air currents.
Earth’s gravitational force pulls the sun’s rays away from the equator.
Earth’s curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the sun’s rays to fall evenly on its surface.
The correct response that explains the differences in the distribution of solar energy on Earth's surface is: "Earth’s curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the sun’s rays to fall evenly on its surface."
To understand this, we need to consider the way the sun's rays reach different parts of the Earth. Due to the Earth's spherical shape, the curvature causes the rays to spread out over a larger area. This means that the same amount of solar energy is spread over a larger surface area as the rays reach the Earth's surface at an angle.
Additionally, the Earth's tilt on its axis leads to the changing seasons. When one hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, it receives more direct and concentrated solar radiation, resulting in warmer temperatures and longer days. On the other hand, the hemisphere tilted away from the sun receives less direct sunlight, leading to cooler temperatures and shorter days.
These factors together create variations in the distribution of solar energy on Earth's surface, resulting in different climates and weather patterns.
The differences in the distribution of solar energy on Earth's surface can be explained by a combination of factors.
Firstly, Earth's curved shape and tilt on its axis play a significant role. Due to the curvature of the Earth, the sun's rays do not fall evenly on its surface. This results in variations in solar energy distribution, with areas closer to the equator receiving more direct and intense sunlight compared to regions near the poles.
Secondly, Earth's climate system also plays a role in determining how much solar energy is absorbed from the sun. Factors such as cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the presence of greenhouse gases can affect the amount of solar radiation that reaches the Earth's surface and is ultimately absorbed.
Another factor that influences the distribution of solar energy is air currents. Air currents, driven by temperature differences and atmospheric pressure gradients, can impact the movement of heat energy across the Earth's surface. This can lead to variations in solar energy distribution, as air currents can transport heat from one region to another.
Lastly, Earth's gravitational force does not directly affect the distribution of solar energy. Gravitational force primarily governs the motion of celestial bodies, including the Earth's orbit around the sun.
In summary, the differences in the distribution of solar energy on Earth's surface can be attributed to its curved shape and tilt on its axis, the influence of the climate system, and the role of air currents. Gravitational force, on the other hand, does not directly impact solar energy distribution.