Which one of the following is not correct in the context of greenhouse

Which one of the following is not correct in the context of greenhouse effect?

[amp_mcq option1=”Nitrogen and oxygen are poor absorbers of shortwave solar radiation” option2=”Clouds are poor absorbers of the Earth radiation” option3=”The most Earth radiation that escapes to space is in a narrow band from 8-13 micrometres” option4=”More than 70% of the atmospheric radiant energy is directed back to the surface” correct=”option2″]

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UPSC Geoscientist – 2022

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Clouds are composed of water droplets or ice crystals and are very effective absorbers and emitters of longwave infrared radiation (Earth radiation). They significantly contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing outgoing radiation and re-emitting it back towards the surface. Therefore, the statement that clouds are poor absorbers of Earth radiation is incorrect.

– Nitrogen and oxygen (A) are diatomic molecules and are poor absorbers of both incoming solar (shortwave) and outgoing Earth (longwave) radiation, explaining why they are not greenhouse gases.
– The atmospheric window (C) is a range of wavelengths (roughly 8-13 µm) in the infrared spectrum where the atmosphere, particularly water vapour and CO2, is relatively transparent, allowing some Earth radiation to escape to space.
– A large proportion of atmospheric radiant energy, absorbed from the Earth’s surface, is indeed re-emitted downwards as back radiation (D), contributing significantly to surface warming via the greenhouse effect. While the exact percentage can vary, the concept that a large amount is directed back is correct.

Clouds have a complex effect on the Earth’s energy balance; they reflect incoming solar radiation (cooling effect) and absorb/emit outgoing infrared radiation (warming effect). The net effect depends on cloud type, altitude, and latitude. However, their role as strong absorbers and emitters of infrared radiation is well established.

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