Q. Consider the following statements:
I. Without the atmosphere, temperature would be well below freezing point everywhere on the Earth’s surface.
II. Heat absorbed and trapped by the atmosphere maintains our planet’s average temperature.
III. Atmosphere’s gases, like carbon dioxide, are particularly good at absorbing and trapping radiation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Exp) Option d is the correct answer.
Statement 1 is incorrect. Without an atmosphere, there’s no air/clouds to scatter or absorb sunlight. So, places in direct sunlight would become extremely hot, especially near the equator. Surface temperatures can exceed 100°C, much like the Moon, which has no atmosphere. Without an atmosphere to trap heat (no greenhouse effect) or distribute it via wind, temperatures would plummet rapidly after sunset. Places in shadow or during nighttime would become extremely cold.
Statement 2 is correct. The atmosphere helps regulate the Earth’s temperature by absorbing heat from the Sun during the day and slowing its escape at night. This heat-trapping ability is what keeps the planet’s average surface temperature around 15°C (59°F), making it suitable for life. Without this natural insulation, Earth would experience harsh temperature fluctuations between day and night, similar to what occurs on planets and moons with thin or no atmospheres.
Statement 3 is correct. Certain gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane, and water vapor, have the unique ability to absorb and trap radiation. This property makes them especially effective in trapping heat within the atmosphere, contributing significantly to the greenhouse effect.
Source: https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/gess204.pdf
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