Albedo is the ratio of reflected solar radiation to the total incoming solar radiation

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Consider the statement about albedo and what it measures.
First, albedo is defined as the fraction of incoming solar radiation that is reflected by a surface or medium. This matches the idea of a ratio: reflected energy divided by total incoming energy (solar radiation).
Second, because it is a ratio of two energy quantities, albedo is a dimensionless number. It is commonly expressed as a decimal between 0 and 1, or as a percentage between 0% and 100%.
Third, the concept is not about the amount of energy absorbed or the energy lost in other processes; it specifically quantifies reflection relative to what arrives at the surface.
Fourth, in some contexts such as planetary science, “albedo” can be discussed in more precise terms (geometric, spectral, or Bond albedo), but the core definition remains the same: the ratio of reflected solar radiation to total incoming solar radiation.
Fifth, a surface with an albedo of 0 would absorb all incoming energy and reflect none, while an albedo of 1 would reflect all incoming energy and absorb none, illustrating the ratio interpretation clearly.
In light of these points, the statement aligns with the standard definition of albedo, and is therefore true.

CLMTGR5001_002_2025_3 - Dynamics of Climate Variability and Chan PRACTICE QUIZ: Week 2 Lecture 2

Albedo is the ratio of reflected solar radiation to the total incoming solar radiation

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Albedo is the ratio of reflected solar radiation to the total incoming solar radiation

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