What can happen to albedo when snow melts?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Reflection can decrease
Albedo is the fraction of incoming sunlight that a surface reflects. Bright snow and ice have high albedo, so they reflect much solar energy. When snow melts, darker soil, rock, or water may be exposed; these surfaces absorb more sunlight and reflect less. This decrease in albedo can create a positive feedback that promotes additional warming and melting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Reflection can decrease
Why is this the correct answer?
Albedo is the fraction of incoming sunlight that a surface reflects. Bright snow and ice have high albedo, so they reflect much solar energy. When snow melts, darker soil, rock, or water may be exposed; these surfaces absorb more sunlight and reflect less. This decrease in albedo can create a positive feedback that promotes additional warming and melting.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 12 Geography question. Chapter: World Climate and Climate Change.
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