Spatial Differences in Solar Radiation and Temperature

Vocabulary flashcards covering spatial differences in solar radiation, albedo, atmospheric density, and latent energy based on the lecture text.

Radiation balance

An energy balance that can be calculated for the Earth as a whole or for specific geographical regions.

Tropics radiation incidence

Perpendicular incoming solar rays resulting from the sun standing high in the sky, which concentrates heat onto a small surface area.

Slanted solar radiation incidence

Solar rays striking at an angle because the sun stands lower in the sky at higher latitudes, distributing heat over a larger area and causing colder conditions.

Polar albedo

The reflective capacity of ice caps and sea ice that helps keep the polar regions cool.

Cloud albedo

The daytime reflection of incoming solar radiation by cloud cover, which limits the increase in air temperature.

Mountain atmospheric density

Thinner air at high elevations that offers less protection against incoming solar rays and creates a weaker greenhouse effect, leading to cooler temperatures.

Latent energy

Energy consumed during the evaporation of water rather than directly warming the atmosphere, resulting in lower daytime temperatures around the equator compared to the Sahara.