The lag of extreme temperatures with respect to minimum or maximum values of solar radiation is due to:
A)the earth being covered mostly by water.
B)the rotational motion of the earth.
C)the influence of the total radiation balance
D)absorption within the atmosphere
E)the elliptical orbit of the earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lag of extreme temperatures with respect to minimum or maximum values of solar radiation is due to the influence of the total radiation balance. This refers to the balance between the incoming solar radiation and the outgoing terrestrial radiation, which varies throughout the day and year. The time lag occurs because the Earth's atmosphere absorbs and stores heat, causing a delay in the temperature response to changes in solar radiation. Factors such as the Earth's rotation, water coverage, and orbit shape do not directly affect this time lag.

The Lag of Extreme Temperatures with Respect to Minimum or Maximum