Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: The atmosphere is heated more by incoming solar radiation than by terrestrial radiation.
Statement-II: Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere are good absorbers of long wave radiation.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
- A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement II explains Statement-I
- B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement II does not explain Statement-I
- C.Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- D.Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: D. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
The atmosphere is primarily heated by terrestrial radiation, not incoming solar radiation. Solar radiation largely passes through the atmosphere and heats the Earth's surface. The Earth's surface then re-radiates this energy as long-wave (infrared) radiation, which is effectively absorbed by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. This absorption traps heat, warming the atmosphere, a process known as the greenhouse effect.
Source: UPSC gs1 2024