Final answer:
Solar radiation can be absorbed or reflected as it travels through Earth's atmosphere. Greenhouse gas molecules also absorb and re-emit a portion of solar radiation, warming the surface and lower atmosphere.
Step-by-step explanation:
When solar radiation enters Earth's atmosphere, several things can happen. It can be absorbed or reflected as it travels to Earth's surface. Light-colored objects and surfaces, like snow and clouds, tend to reflect most sunlight, while darker objects and surfaces, like the ocean and forests, tend to absorb more sunlight. Additionally, some of the solar radiation is absorbed and re-emitted in all directions by greenhouse gas molecules, which helps warm Earth's surface and lower atmosphere.