Final answer:
The primary external source of energy for Earth that drives climate is the energy from the Sun, which influences weather patterns and the climate system. Greenhouse gases, especially CO2 from burning fossil fuels, trap solar energy, leading to the greenhouse effect and climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Sun as an Energy Source for Earth and Its Impact on Climate
The energy from the Sun is the primary external source of energy for Earth and the main driving force behind climate and weather patterns. This solar energy powers the atmospheric and oceanic circulatory systems, influencing weather and climate on a global scale.
Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane, play a critical role in the Earth's climate system by trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to a warming effect known as the greenhouse effect. The concentration of these gases has dramatically increased due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, which significantly contributes to climate change.
Fossil fuel combustion releases large amounts of CO2, while other contributors include deforestation, agriculture, and manufacturing. Further influencing climate are natural processes such as the water cycle, which is driven by solar energy and gravity.
Additionally, while the Sun's energy is relatively constant, slight changes in its intensity and Earth's orbit can also affect the climate. Nevertheless, the recent changes in climate are predominantly due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations resulting from human activity.