Earth Systems and Resources

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Earth's atmosphere, global wind patterns, and the properties of air, based on the lecture notes.

Solar radiation

Earth's main source of energy, varies with latitude and seasons.

Albedo

The fraction of solar energy reflected from the Earth back into space.

Troposphere

The lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere, where most weather occurs.

Stratosphere

The atmospheric layer above the troposphere, containing the ozone layer.

Hadley cells

Convection currents that cycle between the equator and 30° N and 30° S.

Coriolis effect

The deflection of an object's path due to Earth's rotation.

Atmospheric convection currents

Global patterns of air movement caused by unequal heating of the Earth.

Latent heat release

The release of energy when water vapor condenses into liquid.

Trace gases

Gases present in the atmosphere in small amounts, such as carbon dioxide and methane.

Density

The mass of air molecules in a given volume, affecting air movement.