Which one of the following is not correct in the context of daytime heating experienced on the Earth?
The highest daytime temperatures usually occur several hours after the time of maximum solar input
Equilibrium between incoming and outgoing radiation occurs about an hour and a half after sunset
The extent of daily lag in maximum temperature varies
Presence of vegetation cover reduces the maximum temperature
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
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UPSC Geoscientist – 2022
– There is a lag between the time of maximum solar radiation input (solar noon) and the time of maximum daily temperature due to the heat capacity of the surface and atmosphere.
– Maximum temperature occurs when the net energy balance transitions from positive (energy gain) to negative (energy loss). This transition point usually happens a few hours after maximum solar input and *before* sunset.
– After sunset, the net radiation balance is negative, and the surface cools.