Geography • Physical GeographyMedium
Which of the following describes the term 'albedo' in climatology and earth sciences?
A. The rate of heat absorption by greenhouse gases in the troposphere
B. The percentage of solar radiation reflected by a surface✓ Correct Answer
C. The longwave terrestrial radiation emitted back to space
D. The net radiation balance at the top of the atmosphere
💡 Solution & Explanation
Albedo defines the reflective property of a surface, quantified as the ratio of reflected shortwave radiation to incident solar radiation. Surfaces like fresh snow possess high albedo due to maximum reflection, while dark forests absorb most incoming energy. Alternative choices describe greenhouse gas absorption, outgoing longwave radiation, or net atmospheric energy balances rather than surface reflectivity.
More Geography Physical Geography questions
- Which of the following mountain ranges in Himachal Pradesh forms the watershed between the Chenab and Ravi…
- Which type of mass wasting involves the rapid downslope movement of soil, rock, and debris saturated with…
- In the classification of igneous rocks, which term refers to mafic rocks that are low in silica (around…
- In climatology, the Intertropical Convergence Zone is characterized by specific atmospheric properties. Which…
- During the months of May and June, the plains of Punjab experience a hot, dry, and gusty local wind known…