Transfer of Heat
This type of heat transfer occurs through electromagnetic waves, such as the Sun's rays reaching the Earth.
radiation
As you move from the equator toward the poles, this generally decreases due to the angle at which solar radiation strikes the Earth and the varying length of daylight.
temperature
This type of electromagnetic radiation is visible to the human eye and allows us to see the colors of the rainbow.
visible light
This process occurs when warm air or liquid rises, and cooler air or liquid moves in to take its place, creating currents
convection
This factor determines how much solar energy is reflected off the ocean’s surface, influencing sea surface temperatures.
the albedo
These waves have a longer wavelength than visible light and are often associated with heat, such as the warmth we feel from a fire.
infrared light
This method of heat transfer occurs when heat moves through solids, like when a spoon in a hot pot becomes hot.
conduction
The temperature of the air in the lowest few metres of the atmosphere is often referred to as
This type of wave is commonly used for communication, including radio broadcasts and TV signals.
radio waves
This is the form of energy that flows from a warmer object to a cooler one, often experienced as warmth.
heat
This layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, of wavelengths 200 nm to 300 nm, which is damaging to living cells.
the ozone layer
These waves are used in cooking food and are found between radio waves and infrared light in the electromagnetic spectrum.
micro waves
This type of heat transfer is responsible for wind, as warm air rises and is replaced by cooler air.
convection
TSI This refers to the total amount of solar energy received at the Earth's surface per unit area, often measured outside the Earth's atmosphere.
total solar irradiance
These high-energy waves are often used in medical imaging and can pass through soft tissue but are absorbed by bones.