what ultimately happens to all the absorbed solar energy?

All the absorbed solar energy is eventually converted and transferred in various forms. Here's a breakdown of what happens to solar energy:

1. Reflection: Some solar energy is reflected back into space by Earth's atmosphere, clouds, and reflective surfaces like ice and snow.

2. Absorption: A significant portion of solar energy is absorbed by the Earth's surface, including land, water bodies, and vegetation.

3. Conversion to heat: When solar energy is absorbed by the Earth's surface, it is converted into heat energy. This process increases the temperature of the land, water, and air in the immediate vicinity.

4. Radiation: As the Earth's surface heats up, it radiates thermal energy in the form of infrared radiation. This radiation is emitted from the Earth into the atmosphere.

5. Convection and conduction: The heated air near the Earth's surface rises due to convection, forming air currents. Conduction transfers heat from the Earth's surface to the surrounding objects or to deeper layers of the ground.

6. Circulation: The heat energy transferred through convection and conduction contributes to atmospheric circulation patterns, such as wind currents and ocean currents. These movements distribute the heat energy across the planet, creating weather patterns.

7. Photosynthesis: Plants and other photosynthetic organisms capture solar energy through the process of photosynthesis. This energy is converted into chemical energy, stored in the form of glucose and other organic molecules.

8. Transformation into other forms: Some solar energy powers various natural processes like evaporation, precipitation, and the water cycle. Additionally, solar energy can be harnessed through technologies like solar panels to generate electricity or heat water for domestic and industrial use.

In summary, absorbed solar energy is transformed into various forms like heat, radiation, mechanical energy (convection and conduction), chemical energy (photosynthesis), and electrical energy (through human technologies).