Difference between Solar Radiation and Terrestrial Radiation

Solar Radiation

(i) Incoming solar energy is in the form of short waves.

(ii) It heats the earth’s surface.

(iii) 14 units out of 100 units is ab­sorbed by the atmosphere, 35 units are reflected back to space and the rest 51 units reach the earth’s surface.

Terrestrial Radiation

(i) Outgoing radiation from the earth is in the form of long waves.

(ii) It heats the atmosphere.

(iii) 34 units out of 51 units are absorbed by the atmosphere and 17 units are reflected (bounced) back to space.