Question

What is the major source of atmospheric heat?

Answer 1

The major source of atmospheric heat is the outgoing terrestrial radiation from the Earth’s surface. Although the Sun provides the initial energy (insolation), the atmosphere is heated more by the long-wave terrestrial radiation emitted by the Earth after it absorbs solar energy. About 66% of this terrestrial radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere, which warms it significantly. This process allows the atmosphere to retain heat, especially during the night, keeping the Earth warm. Thus, the atmosphere is heated mainly by the Earth’s emitted terrestrial radiation rather than directly by incoming solar radiation.