Question

how does solar energy affect the temperature of the earths surface? it cools the surface by reflecting heat. it warms the surface by absorbing heat. it has no effect on surface temperature. it only affects the temperature at night

Explanation:

Solar energy from the Sun warms the Earth's surface by being absorbed. The Sun emits energy, and the Earth's surface (like land, water) absorbs this solar radiation, which increases the surface temperature. The other options are incorrect: cooling by reflecting is not the primary way solar energy affects surface temp (reflection is more about albedo but solar energy's main effect on temp is warming via absorption), it does have an effect, and it affects temp during day (and night via retained heat), not only night.

Answer:

It warms the surface by absorbing heat.