Question

which process causes earths surface to warm?
the conduction of heat by air above earths surface
the radiation of the suns electromagnetic waves
the convection of warm air from the atmosphere
the reflection of electromagnetic waves off bodies of water

Explanation:

The Sun emits electromagnetic waves (including visible light and infrared radiation). When these waves reach Earth, they are absorbed by the Earth's surface (land, water, etc.), which causes the surface to warm. Conduction of heat by air above Earth's surface is a secondary process that occurs after the surface is already warm. Convection of warm air from the atmosphere is related to the movement of air due to temperature differences (after the surface warms the air near it). Reflection of electromagnetic waves off bodies of water would not warm the surface (as the waves are reflected away rather than absorbed).

Answer:

the radiation of the Sun’s electromagnetic waves