QUESTION

Easy

Physical Geography

Prelims 2023

With reference to the Earth's atmosphere, which one of the following statements is correct?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

  • While it is true that the equator receives more direct sunlight compared to the poles, the actual difference in insolation is not as large as ten times. The difference in insolation between the equator and poles is primarily due to the curvature of the Earth and the tilt of its axis, resulting in varying angles at which sunlight reaches different latitudes.

  • Insolation includes various wavelengths, such as visible light, ultraviolet rays, and infrared rays, but infrared rays do not constitute two-thirds of it.

  • Water vapour is a greenhouse gas that absorbs infrared radiation emitted by the Earth's surface. This absorption contributes to the greenhouse effect and helps regulate the Earth's temperature. Hence, this is the correct statement.

  • Infrared waves are not part of the visible spectrum; they have longer wavelengths than visible light.

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