Chapter 30, Problem 10RQ

How is the atmosphere near Earth’s surface heated from below?

To determine

The reason behind atmosphere near the Earth’s surface is heated from below.

Answer to Problem 10RQ

The atmosphere near the Earth’s surface is heated from below because of the terrestrial radiation emitted by the surface of Earth.

Explanation of Solution

The wavelength of the Sun rays is mostly visible short-wavelength, which is absorbed by the Earth. The Earth re-emits this radiation known as terrestrial radiation, which has a long infrared wavelength. The terrestrial radiation warms the lower atmosphere more, as compared to the radiation due to Sun. This is the reason, air near the surface of the Earth is much warmer as compared to the air at higher altitude.

The temperature of the Earth’s surface depends on the amount of terrestrial radiation emitted and also on the amount of solar radiation absorbed. In the day time, the net effect is warming because Earth’s surface absorbs more radiation and emits less.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the atmosphere near the Earth’s surface is heated from below because of the terrestrial radiation emitted by the surface of Earth.