Assume that the absorbed solar power averaged over the latitudes within - 45 to
ID: 1594006 • Letter: A
Question
Assume that the absorbed solar power averaged over the latitudes within - 45 to +45 degrees of the equator (half of the Earth's surface; spherical shape assumed) is P_eq=300 W/m^2 and that near the poles (averaged over -90 to -45 and 45 to 90 degrees latitudes; the other half of the Earth's surface) is P_poles=110 W/m^2. What would be the corresponding temperature difference between these two climate areas of the Earth, assuming each area separately formed an equilibrium with radiation, without exchanging heat by oceans or air? Express your answer in relation to the actual difference in average temperature measured to be 15 K [dimensionless]. (Choose the closest estimate below.) Select one: a. 4 b. 5 c. 3 d. 2 e. 1
Explanation / Answer
considering areas to be same for each area and using the fact that power propotional to the fourth power of temeperature.
answer is d.