What is the definition of the solar constant?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the definition of the solar constant, which is a specific term used in the context of solar energy and physics to describe the amount of solar energy received per unit area at the outer surface of Earth's atmosphere. It is important to clarify this concept and its significance in understanding solar radiation.
Answer
The solar constant is 1370 W/m².
The solar constant is the amount of solar electromagnetic radiation received per unit time per unit area on a surface perpendicular to the Sun's rays at the outer layer of Earth's atmosphere, with a mean value of about 1370 watts per square meter.
Answer for screen readers
The solar constant is the amount of solar electromagnetic radiation received per unit time per unit area on a surface perpendicular to the Sun's rays at the outer layer of Earth's atmosphere, with a mean value of about 1370 watts per square meter.
More Information
The solar constant is crucial for understanding Earth's energy balance and climate. It represents the average solar irradiance received at the top of Earth's atmosphere on a perpendicular surface.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the solar constant with the actual solar irradiance received at Earth's surface, which can be affected by the atmosphere.
Sources
- Solar constant - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Solar constant | Sunlight, Solar Radiation, Insolation - Britannica - britannica.com
- Solar Constant: Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster - merriam-webster.com
