Final answer:
The surplus of radiation received at the equator is carried through a combination of processes. First, the energy from the sun is absorbed by the earth's surface, which heats up and emits infrared radiation. Some of this radiation is directly emitted into space, while some is absorbed by the atmosphere. The heated air in the equator region then rises and flows towards the poles through atmospheric convection currents.
Step-by-step explanation:
The surplus of radiation received at the equator is carried towards the poles through a variety of atmospheric and oceanic processes. Since the equator receives more direct sunlight, it absorbs more solar energy leading to a surplus of heat. This surplus must be distributed to maintain the Earth's energy balance. The oceans and atmosphere work together to transfer this heat from the equator toward the poles in a process known as atmospheric and oceanic circulation. This helps in reducing temperature gradients, and it is essential for driving the climate and weather patterns we experience. Within the atmosphere, this heat is primarily transferred by the Hadley cells, which are part of the larger atmospheric circulation. These cells carry warm air aloft from the equator to about 30 degrees north and south latitude, where the air cools and sinks. Furthermore, ocean currents like the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean move warm water from the equator toward the poles, contributing to this heat transfer.