A question about heat transfer in our atmosphere

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SUMMARY

The primary focus of the discussion is the mechanisms of heat transfer in Earth's atmosphere, specifically questioning whether radiation is the sole method for reducing internal energy. It is established that while kinetic theory suggests air molecules retain their kinetic energy in the vacuum of space, the evaporation of atmospheric gases contributes minimally to cooling. The consensus is that radiative energy loss is the dominant factor in decreasing atmospheric internal energy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic theory of gases
  • Familiarity with radiative heat transfer principles
  • Basic knowledge of atmospheric science
  • Concept of evaporation and its effects on temperature
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of radiative heat transfer in the atmosphere
  • Explore the kinetic theory of gases and its implications for energy retention
  • Investigate the role of evaporation in atmospheric cooling
  • Study the energy balance of Earth's atmosphere
USEFUL FOR

Atmospheric scientists, climate researchers, students studying environmental science, and anyone interested in the physics of heat transfer in the atmosphere.

Keith
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So I've been wondering this for a couple days now: Is radiation the only means for decreasing the internal energy of our atmosphere?

I know that in kinetic theory the molecules are similar to bouncy balls and if they were in contact with the vacuum of space, the air molecules would have no reason to lose any of their kinetic energy, right?
 
Science news on Phys.org
There is a small amount of gas from the atmosphere evaporating into space, cooling off the atmosphere. But this is negligible compared to the radiative energy.
 
Awesome thanks Khashishi
 

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