Chapter 24.3
Solar Energy and
Winds
Solar Energy
When solar energy reaches the
atmosphere:
 Reflected back – 30%
 Absorbed by atmosphere-20%
 Absorbed by earth – 50%
Greenhouse Effect

Energy reflected by
the earth’s surface is
trapped by water vapor
and carbon dioxide.
How is Energy Transferred
Within the Troposphere?
Radiation – land and water
radiate heat back into the
atmosphere.
 Conduction – heats air in direct
contact with the land and water
 Convection – Currents form
when hot air rises and cooler air
sinks

Wind
Caused by differences
in air pressure.
 Air flows from area of
high pressure to area
of low pressure.

Local Winds
Wind that blows over a short
distance.
 Daytime-Sea breeze-cool air
from water flows toward land
 Night time-Land breeze-cooler
air over land moves toward
water.

Global Winds
Winds that blow over
long distances.
 Convection cells –
circulating air patterns.

Global Winds
Trade winds
 Westerlies
 Polar easterlies

Coriolis Effect

Causes global winds to
curve because of the
rotation of the earth.
Jet Stream
A belt of high
altitude wind in the
upper troposphere.
