Single-layer Atmosphere Model

Reading

A reading that introduces a single-layer atmosphere model, which is based on the emissivity of thermal radiation, to explain atmospheric warming.

Students will learn about the absorptivity and emissivity of grey bodies, the equation for planetary energy balance, and emission profiles of different sources while understanding a simple model to determine planetary surface temperatures.

Use this tool to help students find answers to:

  1. Define emissivity and absorptivity.
  2. Describe the single-layer atmosphere model for atmospheric warming.

Image credit: American Chemical Society

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By American Chemical Society (ACS)

Hosted at American Chemical Society (ACS)


Language: English

Location: Global

Grade: High School, Undergraduate

Access: Online

Computer Skills: Basic


Discipline: Physics, Earth Sciences

Discipline Topics: Atmospheric Warming, Blackbody Radiation, Emissivity, Absorptivity, Stefan-Boltzmann Law

Climate Topics: Climate and the Atmosphere, Planetary Energy Balance