Line graphs are used to track changes over short and long periods of time. When smaller changes exist, line graphs are better to use than bar graphs. Line graphs can also be used to compare changes over the same period of time for more than one group. . . . a Pie Chart. Pie charts are best to use when you are trying to compare parts of a whole.
About 51% of solar energy reaching the earth is absorbed by the Earth's surface. Incoming solar radiation: 100% Reflected by the atmosphere: 6% : Absorbed by â¦ the atmosphere: 16% Continuing incoming solar radiation: 78% Reflected by clouds: 20% : Absorbed by clouds: 3% Continuing incoming solar radiation: 55% Reflected by the earth's surface: 4% : Absorbed by the earth's surface (lands and oceans): 51% (Source: NASA.)
The balance between energy absorbed by the earth and energy reflected back into space is fundamental in determining how warm or cool the planet becomes. The proportion of radiation reflected away by a surface is called its albedo. Albedo can range between 0 (no reflectance) and 1 (complete reflectanceâlike a mirror). The earthâs average albedo is .31, which means that, overall, the planet reflects about 31% of incoming solar radiation back into space.