Read page 6 and 7of the Higher core textbook. Or P 9 of Core Physical Copy diagram 2.4

1. Global InsolationAim- To explain with the aid of an annotated diagram, why Tropical latitudes receive more of the sun’s energy than Polar regions • Read page 6 and 7of the Higher core textbook. Or P 9 of Core Physical • Copy diagram 2.4 • Using figure 1.11 on p9 Describe and account for the variation in insolation between the tropics and the poles. 10 marks. • NB reason not mentioned in book, equator receives two solar maxima’s in spring and autumn whereas the higher latitudes only receive one solar maxima.

2. Global InsolationAim- To explain with the aid of an annotated diagram, why Tropical latitudes receive more of the sun’s energy than Polar regions Answer; Good answers willhave a well annotated diagram. • Sun’s raysbeing more concentrated on Tropical/Equatorial latitudes as intensity of insolation is greatest where the sun’s rays strike vertically. • These more direct rays from the sun mean that less solar radiation is lost through reflection at tropical latitudes. • Sun’s rays have less atmosphere to pass through at the tropics compared to the poles due to the differing curvature of the earth’s surface. • Sun’s angle in the sky decreases towards the poles so less effective as heat is spread over a larger area. • Differing relative albedos between the Tropics and Poles- darker forest surfaces around Equator absorb radiation whereas lighter snow covered ones at the Poles are more likely to reflect incoming solar radiation. • Equator receives two “maximas” when the sun is directly overhead, whereas the N+S hemispheres receive only one.