Clouds play an important and complex role in the moderation of Earth's climate. They contribute to Earth's albedo by reflecting light and shading us from the sun. They also contain molecules that absorb infrared radiation and contribute to the greenhouse effect.
Image Courtesy of NASA
Keeping in mind how the reflection of light affects our radiation balance, complete the table below. Think of solutions on your own and then click the squares to see the correct answers highlighted in green.
| Increased Albedo | Decreased Albedo | |
|---|---|---|
| What is the resulting surface temperature change? |
Increased Surface Temperature
Increased Surface Temperature
|
Increased Surface Temperature
Increased Surface Temperature
|
|
Decreased Surface Temperature
Decreased Surface Temperature
|
Decreased Surface Temperature
Decreased Surface Temperature
|