Which one of the following statements is TRUE for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) in the atmosphere?
- AGHG absorbs the incoming short wavelength solar radiation to the earth surface and allows the long wavelength radiation coming from the earth surface to pass through
- BGHG allows the incoming long wavelength solar radiation to pass through to the earth surface and absorbs the short wavelength radiation coming from the earth surface
- CGHG allows the incoming long wavelength solar radiation to pass through to the earth surface and allows the short wavelength radiation coming from the earth surface to pass through
- DGHG allows the incoming short wavelength solar radiation to pass through to the earth surface and absorbs the long wavelength radiation coming from the earth surfaceCorrect
Solution
Concept
Greenhouse Effect
Formula
N/A
Step-by-step solution
1. Analyze the interaction of atmospheric greenhouse gases with solar and terrestrial radiation. 2. Recall that greenhouse gases allow incoming short-wavelength solar radiation to pass through while absorbing outgoing long-wavelength radiation from the Earth's surface. 3. Select Option D as the correct answer.
Explanation
Greenhouse gases allow short-wavelength radiation from the sun to pass through the atmosphere and reach the Earth's surface. When the Earth warms up and re-emits this energy as long-wavelength infrared radiation, the greenhouse gases absorb it, trapping heat and keeping the planet warm.
Shortcut
To easily remember how Greenhouse Gases interact with radiation, use the rule "In Short, Out Long": - In Short: Solar radiation coming IN is SHORT wavelength (passes right through). - Out Long: Terrestrial heat going OUT is LONG wavelength (absorbed/trapped by GHGs).
Common mistake
A common mistake is confusing the wavelengths of incoming solar radiation and outgoing terrestrial radiation, leading students to select Option A by incorrectly assuming greenhouse gases absorb short-wavelength solar rays rather than outgoing long-wavelength infrared radiation.
Correct answer: D) GHG allows the incoming short wavelength solar radiation to pass through to the earth surface and absorbs the long wavelength radiation coming from the earth surface