GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Temperature of the Earth

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Waves Black body radiation

Temperature of the Earth

4:10 Infrared Radiation and Black Bodies
Spec 4.6.3.2
Previous Temperature & Absorption Next Temperature & Clouds
  • The Earth is heated by infrared radiation from the sun.
  • Objects absorb infrared waves to gain heat and emit them to release heat.
  • Nuclear fusion in the sun releases energy as electromagnetic waves, including infrared radiation.
  • Infrared waves are the only way to transport heat from the sun through a vacuum to Earth.
  • Without infrared waves, Earth would be too cold to support life.
  • The Earth emits its own heat as infrared radiation in all directions to prevent overheating.
  • Earth and other planets are modeled as black bodies, good at absorbing and emitting radiation.
  • All points on Earth's surface emit radiation at roughly the same intensity.
  • The Earth releases some of the energy it gains, preventing constant temperature rise.
  • The equator is hottest because the sun's infrared radiation strikes it directly.
  • Infrared waves from the sun travel roughly parallel, affecting energy received by different Earth points.
  • The equator receives more energy due to direct infrared wave impact.
  • The North Pole receives less energy, making it colder.
  • Temperature varies due to Earth's rotation, with cooler temperatures at night.
  • The dark side of Earth releases radiation but gains none from the sun at night.
  • During the day, Earth's surface receives and releases energy, while at night, it only releases energy.
  • Temperature differences between day and night are due to the sun's illumination.
  • Understanding these concepts is important for explaining Earth's surface temperature variations.

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