Final answer:
Thermal energy is circulated in the Earth's atmosphere through conduction, convection, and radiation, allowing it to distribute throughout the atmosphere.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thermal Energy Circulation in Earth's Atmosphere
Thermal energy is circulated in the Earth's atmosphere through various processes, primarily conduction, convection, and radiation.
1. Conduction
Conduction occurs when heat energy is transferred between objects that are in direct contact. For example, during the day, the land surface of the Earth absorbs heat from the Sun and transfers it to the lower layers of air through conduction.
2. Convection
Convection is the transfer of thermal energy through the movement of fluids. As the lower layers of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface become heated, they expand and rise, creating vertical air currents. This process, known as convection, helps circulate thermal energy throughout the atmosphere.
3. Radiation
Radiation is the transfer of heat energy through electromagnetic waves. The Sun emits solar radiation, which reaches the Earth and warms the atmosphere. The heated atmosphere then radiates some of this energy back into space.
Overall, the combination of conduction, convection, and radiation allows thermal energy to circulate and distribute throughout the Earth's atmosphere.
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