4Radiation_EnergyWeb

Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR)

A spectrum of waves of energy that includes different wavelengths.

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between wave crests, measured in micrometers (μm).

Solar Radiation

Radiant energy from the sun that occupies a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Stefan Boltzmann Law

E = σT⁴, indicates that hotter objects radiate more energy.

Wein's Displacement Law

λMAX = c/T, states that the wavelength of emitted radiation is inversely related to temperature.

Albedo

The portion of arriving radiation that is reflected back into space, expressed as a ratio.

Insolation

Incoming solar radiation, the flow of energy intercepted by Earth's surface.

Counter radiation

The process by which clouds absorb longwave radiation and reradiate it back to Earth.

Global Radiation Balance

The balance between incoming shortwave radiation and outgoing longwave radiation at Earth's surface.

Energy Conservation Law

In the Earth-atmosphere system, input equals output plus changes in storage.

Latent Heat (LE)

Energy stored in water vapor as it evaporates, which is released when it condenses.

Sensible Heat (H)

Heat that can be felt and measured by touch, transferred between air and surface.

Shortwave Radiation

Radiation from the sun that includes ultraviolet, visible light, and shortwave infrared.

Longwave Radiation

Radiation emitted by the Earth, primarily thermal infrared, that escapes to space.

Global Energy System

Describes the net gain of radiation at Earth's surface balanced by losses in sensible heat and latent heat.