Life on earth cannot exist without a primary source of energy. In this regard, energy is required for primary functions such as movement, metabolism and even breathing. Heat is defined as the transfer of energy from one system to another or from one location to another. Solar energy is the primary source of energy on earth. The following paper discusses methods by which solar energy is moved around once it reaches the surface of our planet.
Energy from the sun is transferred from the atmosphere to the earth surface through radiation hence the term solar radiation. Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. This energy travels as rays or in a straight line. Electromagnetic energy does not need the interaction of matter to move. Hence electromagnetic energy can move through space which is a vacuum. That is how solar energy can reach our atmosphere.
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Convection is another method in which energy is transferred; this refers to the transfer of energy through fluids which include liquid and gases. Example of convection is when water in a metallic container is heated at the bottom. The hot water at the bottom expands and becomes less dense hence moves on top of the container. Due to the difference in density between the water at the bottom and the top, circulation currents develop providing a way for the water at the bottom to transfer energy to the top. It is important to note that the earth surface receives energy from the sun through heat and light. Earth absorbs the sunlight which warms the ground, and through convection, the ground transfers heat energy to the atmosphere.
Lastly, conduction is another way of transferring heat energy. Conduction occurs when molecules or particles in matter collide transferring energy from one atom to another. Conduction can take place in all forms of matter that is solids liquid and gases. Apart from radiation which can occur even in a vacuum the other two methods of transferring energy require a medium or matter. When it comes to transferring energy from the sun, atmosphere and the ocean play a very crucial role because they act as the medium. The ocean also absorbs and store energy from the sun. When the atmosphere is cold, it transfers the stored energy.
In conclusion, the atmosphere and the ocean work together to ensure that energy and heat are transferred from one place to another across the globe. The three methods of energy transfer ensure that heat is transferred between these two media.
