Standard 6 and Objectives

STANDARD 6: Students will understand the source and distribution of energy on Earth and its effects on Earth systems.


OBJECTIVE 1: Describe the transformation of solar energy into heat and chemical energy on Earth and eventually the radiation of energy to space.

OBJECTIVE 2: Relate energy sources and transformation to the effects on Earth systems.




STANDARD 6 SUMMARY: The sun is the major source of Earth's energy. Some of the solar radiation that reaches Earth is reflected, but most is absorbed. Gases in the atmosphere trap some of the heat energy and delay its radiation into space. This greenhouse effect retains energy longer in the Earth system. Currents in the atmosphere and hydrosphere distribute solar heat energy. These currents help determine global and local weather and climate patterns. Photosynthesis uses a small but vital part of the total solar energy for the biosphere. This energy is stored in the chemical bonds of sugars formed in plants.