Question

A distant planet is thought to have an atmosphere made of gases similar to that of Earths. Its temperature is calculated based on its emitted radiation. Will the average temperature calculated match that at its surface? Explain your answer.

a) Yes, because radiation measurements directly correspond to surface temperature.
b) No, because the atmosphere can affect the radiation emitted from the surface.
c) Yes, because the atmosphere has no impact on temperature calculations.
d) No, because distant planets have different temperature measurement mechanisms.

Answer 1

b. No, because the atmosphere can affect the radiation emitted from the surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

b. No, because the atmosphere can affect the radiation emitted from the surface.

The presence of an atmosphere on a distant planet can affect the radiation emitted from its surface. Some of the gases in the atmosphere can trap infrared light, which is the range of wavelengths at which planets radiate thermal energy back out to space. This phenomenon, known as the greenhouse effect, can raise the planet's surface temperature more than it would be otherwise.