Variation of EM radiation(Sun) in different latitudes

In summary, the amount of EM radiation received from the Sun varies with latitude due to the angle at which the radiation hits the Earth's atmosphere. The thickness of the atmosphere also plays a role in the amount of radiation that reaches the surface. The longer the wavelength, the more the radiation can penetrate the atmosphere. A thicker atmosphere results in more scattering and absorption of radiation. The distance and density of the atmosphere also affect the amount of radiation that reaches the surface.
  • #1
thorium1010
178
6
So we know that there is variation of EM radiation in different latitudes we receive from Sun. My question is, it same through all EM radiation like uv rays, visible spectrum , IR spectrum or specific to only to one type of radiation like only uv or IR rays? i.e. higher latitude, there is less uv or it is same through all EM radiation we receive ?
 
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  • #2
You'll have noticed that the angle to the Sun, at the same time of day, also varies with latitude :)
The amount of radiation received depends on the distance to the source and the amount (and type) of intervening material. Relate that to your question ;)
 
  • #3
Simon Bridge said:
You'll have noticed that the angle to the Sun, at the same time of day, also varies with latitude :)
The amount of radiation received depends on the distance to the source and the amount (and type) of intervening material. Relate that to your question ;)

So angle, meaning it is more perpendicular at the equator than higher latitudes ? Also longer the wavelength the more it penetrates the atmosphere.

So thickness of the atmosphere varies with latitude ?
 
  • #4
Lets say the thickness of the atmosphere does not vary with latitude ... draw a circle representing the Earth, and draw another circle around it representing an exaggerated atmosphere thickness ... now draw the rays illuminating this Earth from one side (from a Sun somewhere down the other end of the room) ... observe how much atmosphere must the rays pass through at each latitude in order to reach the ground.

Note: the long-wavelength thing is to do with scattering ... do you generally see a redder sky in the arctic/antactic regeons?
 
  • #5
what about angle at which the radiation when hits our atmosphere ? Does it play a role in difference in the amount that reaches surface?

Does thicker atmosphere mean more scattering or absorption ?
 
  • #6
The angle affects how much atmosphere a ray has to pass through to reach the surface.

A thicker atmosphere means there is more opportunity to scatter and to be absorbed.
EM radiation reduces exponentially with distance through "stuff" while charged particles have a pretty-much fixed stopping distance depending on density of the stuff, as well as the momentum and charge of the particle.
 
  • #8
Thanks Simon and Jim.
 

1. What is the main cause of variation in EM radiation from the Sun at different latitudes?

The main cause of variation in EM radiation from the Sun at different latitudes is due to the curvature of the Earth and its tilt on its axis. This results in different angles at which the Sun's rays hit different latitudes, thus affecting the amount of EM radiation received.

2. How does the variation in EM radiation at different latitudes affect the Earth's climate?

The variation in EM radiation at different latitudes plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's climate. The amount of radiation received at the equator is higher, resulting in warmer temperatures and a more tropical climate. In contrast, regions near the poles receive less radiation, resulting in colder temperatures and a more polar climate.

3. Are there any other factors that contribute to the variation of EM radiation from the Sun at different latitudes?

Yes, there are other factors that contribute to the variation of EM radiation from the Sun at different latitudes, such as cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and land features. These factors can affect the amount of radiation that reaches the Earth's surface at a particular latitude.

4. How does the variation of EM radiation at different latitudes impact plant and animal life?

The variation of EM radiation at different latitudes has a significant impact on plant and animal life. Regions with high levels of radiation, such as the equator, have a more diverse range of plant and animal species due to the warm and humid climate. In contrast, regions with lower levels of radiation, such as the poles, have fewer plant and animal species and often have adaptations to survive in colder environments.

5. Is there a noticeable difference in the variation of EM radiation at different latitudes over time?

Yes, there is a noticeable difference in the variation of EM radiation at different latitudes over time. This is due to the Earth's tilt on its axis, which changes over the course of a year, resulting in different latitudes receiving more or less radiation from the Sun. Additionally, factors such as the Earth's orbit and changes in the Sun's activity can also impact the variation of EM radiation over time.

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