Every place on Earth receives the same number of hours of sunlight each year-an average of 12 hours per day. Why do different areas of the Earth receive different amounts of solar radiation?
A) The height of the place above sea level is an important determinant of the amount of solar energy received.
B) The density of the vegetation affects how much solar radiation a place will receive-the more grassland, the less solar radiation.
C) The angle of the sunlight is an important determinant of the amount of solar energy received.
D) The density of the vegetation affects how much solar radiation a place will receive-the more tall trees, the less solar radiation.
E) Because of the curvature of the Earth, winds of the upper stratosphere can blow solar radiation away from an area before it reaches the ground.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Different areas of the Earth receive different amounts of solar radiation because of the angle of the sunlight. The Earth is curved, and the angle at which the sunlight hits the surface varies depending on the position of the Earth in relation to the sun. This is why some areas of the Earth receive more direct sunlight and therefore more solar radiation, while other areas receive more indirect sunlight and therefore less solar radiation.

Every Place on Earth Receives the Same Number of Hours