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Chapter 11: Problem 59

A hypothetical planet has an atmosphere that is opaque to visible light but transparent to infrared radiation. How would this affect the planet's surface temperature? Contrast and compare this hypothetical planet's atmosphere with the greenhouse effect in Venus's atmosphere.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The hypothetical planet, with an atmosphere opaque to visible light but transparent to infrared, will likely have a cooler surface temperature, because it blocks incomings shortwave solar radiation but allows for outgoing longwave infrared radiation from the planet's surface. In contrast, Venus's surface temperature is high because the greenhouse gases in its atmosphere trap outgoing longwave infrared radiation. Both planets' surface temperature is determined by their atmosphere's ability to absorb or emit different types of radiation.

Step by step solution

01

Analyze the Hypothetical Planet's Atmosphere

The hypothetical planet's atmosphere is opaque to visible light but transparent to infrared radiation. This means that it prevents visible light, including shortwave radiation from the sun, from penetrating through. However, it allows escape of longwave radiation (infrared) emitted from the planet's surface to space. This would lead to reduced warming of the planet's surface since less of the sun's incoming radiative energy is absorbed.
02

Understanding Greenhouse Effect on Venus

Venus has a strong greenhouse effect. Its thick cloud cover is transparent to incoming solar radiation but opaque to outgoing longwave radiation (infrared) emitted from the planet's surface. The greenhouse gases in its atmosphere absorb this outgoing radiation and re-emit it in all directions, including back towards the surface, causing the surface to heat up significantly.
03

Contrast and Compare

Contrasting, the hypothetical planet does not trap heat, resulting in a colder surface. In comparison, Venus, due to the greenhouse effect, traps heat, which increases its surface temperature. Comparing, both planets experience unique energy balance situations based on their atmospheric composition; however, the outcome on the surface temperature is opposite.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Describe the evidence that there has been recent volcanic activity (a) on Venus and (b) on Mars.

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