• Earth System Energy Balance

Students will be introduced to the effect of albedo on surface temperatures. Students will observe the change in surface temperature as dark and light surfaces are exposed to light energy. Students will understand how light reflection and absorption are related to albedo. Students will understand that lightly colored surfaces have higher albedo than darker colored surfaces.
 
Students will understand that different Earth materials (water and sand) have different heat capacities. Students will learn about key processes involved with planetary energy balance including surface and atmospheric absorption and reflection.
 
Students will understand how the angle of incoming solar radiation affects the climate of the Earth.