Chapter 39, Problem 25A

Why is radiation more intense at high altitudes and near Earth’s poles?

To determine

The reason for more intense radiation at high altitudes and near Earth’s pole.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The radiation is the form of energy transfer that takes place without any medium. The radiation on the earth varies according to the location.

The complete radiation does not reaches to the surface of earth because the atmosphere absorbs some of the radiation. Some radiation reflected back to the space and only some part of the radiation reaches to the surface of the earth.

The radiation at high altitude becomes more intense than the surface because at high altitude the amount of reflected and absorbed radiation reduces due to thin layer of atmosphere at high altitude. The pole receives direct radiation due to its high position and absence of restrictions.

Conclusion:

Thus, the radiation at high altitude and poles becomes more intense due thin layer of environment at high altitude and poles.