Question

which explains the differences in the distribution of solar energy on earths surface? (1 point)
earths climate system determines how much energy is absorbed from the sun.
earths gravitational force pulls the suns rays away from the equator.
earths solar energy is dependent on air currents.
earths curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the suns rays to fall evenly on its surface.

Explanation:

• Analyze Option 1: Earth’s climate system is a result of solar energy distribution, not the cause of differences in solar energy distribution. So this is incorrect.
• Analyze Option 2: Earth’s gravitational force does not pull the sun’s rays away from the equator. Gravitational force is not related to the direction of sun's rays in this way. So this is incorrect.
• Analyze Option 3: Air currents are a result of solar energy distribution (due to temperature differences), not the cause of differences in solar energy distribution. So this is incorrect.
• Analyze Option 4: Earth’s curved shape (spherical) and its axial tilt mean that sun’s rays strike different latitudes at different angles and over different areas. Near the equator, rays are more direct and concentrated, while at higher latitudes, they are more spread out. This causes differences in solar energy distribution. So this is correct.

Answer:

D. Earth’s curved shape and tilt on its axis do not allow the sun’s rays to fall evenly on its surface.