Clouds and gases reflect about ______ of the incoming solar radiation.

Options

A. one-third
B. half
C. one-fourth
D. two - third

Answer

To solve the question, "Clouds and gases reflect about ______ of the incoming solar radiation," we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the total incoming solar radiation
The total amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth is approximately 340 Watts per square meter.

**Hint:** Consider the total energy received by Earth from the sun as a starting point.

### Step 2: Determine the percentage of solar radiation reflected
From the total incoming solar radiation, it is known that about 29% is reflected back into space. This includes contributions from clouds, gases, and aerosols.

**Hint:** Look for the percentage of solar radiation that is reflected, as this will guide you to the answer.

### Step 3: Break down the reflected radiation
Out of the total incoming solar radiation:
- 31% is reflected by aerosols.
- 20% is absorbed by the atmosphere.
- 49% is absorbed by the Earth's surface.

This means that the remaining portion, which is reflected, primarily comes from clouds and gases.

**Hint:** Analyze the distribution of reflected and absorbed solar radiation to find the specific contribution of clouds and gases.

### Step 4: Identify the specific contribution of clouds and gases
It is stated that clouds and gases together reflect about one-fourth of the total incoming solar radiation.

**Hint:** Look for specific values or fractions that represent the contribution of clouds and gases to the total reflection.

### Step 5: Conclude the answer
Based on the information provided, we conclude that clouds and gases reflect about one-fourth (or 25%) of the incoming solar radiation.

**Final Answer:** Clouds and gases reflect about **one-fourth** of the incoming solar radiation.