Final answer:
Incoming solar radiation passes through the Earth's atmosphere relatively easily because it is made up of shorter wavelengths that are not as easily absorbed. The Earth's longer-wavelength infrared radiation is absorbed by greenhouse gases and re-radiated, leading to the warming of the Earth's surface via the greenhouse effect.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to the Earth's greenhouse effect and the difference in how solar radiation and Earth's infrared radiation interact with the atmosphere. Solar radiation, which primarily consists of visible and ultraviolet light, can pass more easily through the Earth's atmosphere because it has shorter wavelengths that are not as readily absorbed by greenhouse gases. On the other hand, the Earth emits longer-wavelength infrared radiation, which is more effectively absorbed by greenhouse gases such as water vapor, methane, and CO2. This absorbed energy is then re-radiated in all directions, trapping heat and warming the Earth's surface and lower atmosphere.
The greenhouse effect is a natural process crucial for maintaining temperatures that sustain life on our planet. Without this effect, Earth's surface temperature would be approximately 40°C lower. However, an increase in greenhouse gas concentrations can lead to more absorption of infrared radiation and an enhanced greenhouse effect, which contributes to global warming.