Final answer:
The variable used by scientists to describe the amount of solar irradiation scattered or absorbed by aerosols is radiative forcing, which is measured in W/m². It is important to study radiative forcing to understand climate change and the Earth's energy balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The variable used by scientists to describe the amount of solar irradiation scattered or absorbed by aerosols is known as radiative forcing. Radiative forcing is measured in W/m² and represents the areal power of absorbed solar energy and infrared radiation to space.
For example, when aerosols scatter solar radiation, they can have a cooling effect on the Earth's surface, reducing the amount of energy that reaches the surface. On the other hand, when aerosols absorb solar radiation, they contribute to heating the atmosphere.
Understanding the radiative forcing of aerosols is important for studying climate change and its impact on the Earth's energy balance.