Question

a balance between incoming and outgoing radiation produces a stable climate. lack of a balance between incoming and outgoing radiation results in a net loss or gain of radiant energy to the system. this energy imbalance is expressed as climate change. explain the steps in this system of energy input and output?
solar radiation reaching the earth system and thermal radiation emitted by the earth system back into space
solar radiation reaching the earth system and solar radiation absorbed by the earth system.
solar radiation reaching the earth system and being absorbed, thermal radiation emitted by the earth system.
solar radiation never reaches the the earth system and thermal radiation emitted by the earth system.

Explanation:

The Earth's energy balance involves solar radiation reaching and being absorbed by the Earth system (input) and thermal radiation emitted by the Earth system back into space (output). Option 1 only mentions radiation but not absorption. Option 2 lacks the output (emitted thermal radiation). Option 4 is incorrect as solar radiation does reach the Earth. Option 3 correctly includes both input (solar radiation reaching and being absorbed) and output (thermal radiation emitted).

Answer:

C. Solar radiation reaching the Earth system and being absorbed, thermal radiation emitted by the Earth system.