Can Calculus Prove Average Solar Irradiance is a Quarter of Total?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on proving that the average solar irradiance over Earth's surface is one-quarter of the total solar irradiance using calculus. The user has successfully demonstrated this using geometry but seeks a calculus-based approach. They propose integrating the function S_{o}cos(θ) but are uncertain about the appropriate integration bounds for the entire surface area of a sphere. The user acknowledges the need to consider the Earth's rotation in their calculations. Suggestions for integrating over the sphere's surface area are requested to clarify the problem.
Dr.Doom
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Homework Statement


I am trying to show that the average solar irradiance over Earth's surface is 1/4 of the total solar irradiance using only calculus.


Homework Equations


Solar Irradiance = S_{o}
Irradiance = F = S_{o}cos(θ)


The Attempt at a Solution


Using geometry, I can easily show that the average solar irradiance is S_{o}/4 by multiplying S_{o} by the ratio of the incident area and total surface area of a sphere:
\frac{S_{o}*∏r^2}{4∏r^2}=\frac{S_{o}}{4}

My question is how can I use calculus to show this? I was thinking that I could integrate S_{o}cos(θ), but I'm not sure what my integration bounds should be. I'm having trouble visualizing how I can integrate over the entire surface area of a sphere.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[Edit] I realize this is probably not the right forum to post this question in but I don't know how to change it.
 
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Googling the definition of solar irradiance your problem came up in one of the links, looks like you need to consider the rotating Earth in your problem.
 
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