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AP®Environmental ScienceCollege BoardExam QuestionsUnit 4: Earth Systems & ResourcesSolar Radiation & Earth’s Seasons

Solar Radiation & Earth’s Seasons (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Exam Questions

2 mins2 questions
11 mark

How does latitude affect the intensity of solar radiation received at Earth's surface?

  • Lower latitudes receive more direct sunlight, leading to higher temperatures, while higher latitudes receive sunlight at a lower angle, spreading energy over a larger area.

  • All latitudes receive the same intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. 

  • Higher latitudes receive the most intense solar radiation due to their position relative to Earth's tilt. 

  • Solar radiation is strongest at the poles because they experience six months of continuous daylight.

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21 mark

Which of the following best defines insolation?  

  • The heat emitted by Earth’s surface after absorbing sunlight.

  • The reflection of solar energy back into space by clouds and ice.

  • The amount of solar radiation received by a given area on Earth's surface.

  • The total amount of heat in Earth’s atmosphere.

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