What is the Difference Between Insolation and Terrestrial Radiation?

Insolation and terrestrial radiation are two different terms regarding radiation energy, and they differ from each other according to the source of energy.

Insolation refers to the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth's surface. Some key points about insolation include:

It is the incoming solar radiation intercepted by the Earth.
It travels in short waves.
Insolation involves only 51 units out of 100 units of solar radiation.

Terrestrial radiation, on the other hand, is the radiation that comes from the Earth, including sources in the soil, water, and vegetation. Some key points about terrestrial radiation include:

It is the Earth's radiation given back to the atmosphere and space.
It travels in long waves.
Terrestrial radiation is responsible for more heating of the atmosphere than insolation.

In summary, insolation is the measurement of the power obtained from sunlight, while terrestrial radiation involves sources external to the Sun, such as the Earth's soil, water, and vegetation.

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What is the Difference Between Insolation and Terrestrial Radiation?

Comparative Table: Insolation vs Terrestrial Radiation

The difference between insolation and terrestrial radiation can be summarized in the following table:

Feature	Insolation	Terrestrial Radiation
Definition	Insolation refers to the measurement of the power of sunlight received on the Earth's surface.	Terrestrial radiation refers to the radiation sources in the soil, water, and vegetation.
Source of Radiation	Sun is the source of radiation.	Various sources, including soil, water, and vegetation.
Wave Length	Travels in short waves.	Travels in long waves.
Measurement	Insolation is measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).	Terrestrial radiation is measured using the Precision Infrared Radiometer.
Transfer of Energy	51 units out of 100 units of solar radiation are involved in insolation, and only 34 units are transferred to the atmosphere.	34 units are transferred to the atmosphere, and 17 units go back to space.

Insolation is the power received from sunlight, while terrestrial radiation is the radiation emitted by sources in the soil, water, and vegetation.

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.