Shortwave Radiation

Surface radiation budgets respond to many atmospheric and geographic factors. This applet examines how cloud cover, surface albedo, latitude, season, and time of day affect incoming shortwave radiation. Play with each of these variables. Compare the relative affects of season, time of day, and latitude on incoming solar radiation. Note the relative effects of cloud cover. Are the effects the same regardless of cloud height? How does albedo influence the net radiation at the Earth's surface?
 
back to index next
Radiation map
June incoming shortwave radiation