Question

Thermal energy transfer in the atmosphere occurs mainly by:

a) conduction

b) convection

c) global wind patterns

d) re-emission of infrared radiation

Answer 1

b) convection

Convection is a movement of air particles due to uneven heating. As air warms, it rises up. However, the further cooling of the air masses causes their moving to the Earth surface. Convection is the main type of energy transfer occuring in higher layers of the atmosphere, whereas conduction provides the exchange of thermal energy between the atmosphere and the Earth surface.