Final answer:
The energy flow from the Sun to the Earth involves radiation, absorption, and transformation of energy through processes like photosynthesis and atmospheric heating.
Step-by-step explanation:
The flow of energy from the Sun to the Earth and then back into space can be described as follows:
- The Sun radiates energy into space in the form of electromagnetic waves, including visible light.
- Some of this energy reaches the Earth's atmosphere, where it is absorbed by gases like carbon dioxide and water vapor.
- This absorbed energy warms the atmosphere, causing air to rise and creating wind patterns.
- On the Earth's surface, plants use sunlight to perform photosynthesis and convert it into chemical energy.
- When energy is not absorbed by the Earth's surface, it is reflected back into space, completing the cycle.