Question

page 5 of 16
question 4
4 points
the maximum amount of sunlight received by dekalb is in late june, yet the highest temperatures are in early july; why is this?
a the most direct rays of the sun dont hit the earth until july.
b the earths tilt is greatest in july.
c the earth is closer to the sun in july.
d there is a lag between maximum solar radiation received and greatest temperatures due to earths energy balance.

Explanation:

The Earth's surface and atmosphere need time to absorb and re - radiate solar energy. Even though maximum sunlight is received in late June, it takes a bit more time for the system to reach its peak temperature due to the energy balance and heat - up process. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as the most direct rays hit around the summer solstice (late June), the Earth's tilt doesn't change significantly in such a short time - span, and the Earth's distance from the Sun isn't the main factor for this short - term temperature lag.

Answer:

D. There is a lag between maximum solar radiation received and greatest temperatures due to Earth's energy balance.