1 Write down the letter of the correct answer. a What is the source of energy for the Sun? A: hydrogen fusion Bi internal combustion C: nuclear fission of metals D: burning of solar gases b The Gulf Stream in the northern hemisphere and the Brazilian Current in the southern hemisphere move poleward. Compared to inland areas at the same latitude, the coastal areas bordering these currents will: A: be warmer. B: have shorter growing seasons. C: have more advection fogs. D: be more arid. (2) [4] 2 Study figure A and then answer the questions that follow. a Define the term 'insolation' (4) b At what latitudes is a balance reached between incoming and outgoing radiation? c Explain the heating process: i between the two latitudes mentioned in (b) ii from these latitudes to the poles. d How is the energy balance between the tropics and the poles restored on Earth? e What would be the consequences if the process described in (d) did not take place?

Let's break down the questions step by step. ### Question 1 **a. What is the source of energy for the Sun?** - A: hydrogen fusion - B: internal combustion - C: nuclear fission of metals - D: burning of solar gases **Correct Answer:** A: hydrogen fusion **Explanation:** The Sun generates energy through the process of hydrogen fusion, where hydrogen nuclei combine to form helium, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process. --- **b. The Gulf Stream in the northern hemisphere and the Brazilian Current in the southern hemisphere move poleward. Compared to inland areas at the same latitude, the coastal areas bordering these currents will:** - A: be warmer. - B: have shorter growing seasons. - C: have more advection fogs. - D: be more arid. **Correct Answer:** A: be warmer. **Explanation:** Ocean currents like the Gulf Stream and the Brazilian Current transport warm water poleward, which raises the temperature of the coastal areas compared to inland areas at the same latitude. --- ### Question 2 **a. Define the term 'insolation'** **Answer:** Insolation refers to the amount of solar radiation received by a given area over a specific time period. It is typically measured in watts per square meter (W/m²) and varies based on factors such as latitude, time of year, and atmospheric conditions. --- **b. At what latitudes is a balance reached between incoming and outgoing radiation?** **Answer:** A balance between incoming and outgoing radiation is typically reached around the latitudes of 30°N and 30°S. These latitudes are where the energy received from the Sun is approximately equal to the energy lost back to space. --- **c. Explain the heating process:** **i. Between the two latitudes mentioned in (b)** **Answer:** Between 30°N and 30°S, the Sun's rays strike the Earth more directly, leading to higher insolation. This area, known as the tropics, receives more solar energy than it loses, resulting in a net gain of heat. The warm air rises, creating convection currents that help distribute heat. **ii. From these latitudes to the poles.** **Answer:** From 30°N and 30°S to the poles, the angle of sunlight becomes more oblique, leading to lower insolation. The poles receive less solar energy, and as a result, they lose more heat than they gain. The warm air from the tropics moves poleward, helping to redistribute heat and balance the temperature differences. --- **d. How is the energy balance between the tropics and the poles restored on Earth?** **Answer:** The energy balance is restored through atmospheric and oceanic circulation. Warm air and water from the tropics move towards the poles, while cold air and water from the poles move towards the tropics. This process is facilitated by wind patterns and ocean currents, which help to distribute heat across the planet. --- **e. What would be the consequences if the process described in (d) did not take place?** **Answer:** If the energy balance process did not occur, the tropics would become excessively hot, while the poles would become even colder. This could lead to extreme weather patterns, disrupted ecosystems, and significant changes in climate. The lack of heat redistribution would also affect agriculture, water supply, and biodiversity across the globe. --- This concludes the detailed answers to the questions provided. If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!