IB · B · multiple choice
The particulate nature of matter · Question 2
The particulate nature of matter · Original GioPhysics question with a detailed, mark-by-mark answer guide.
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multiple choice1 mark
The solar constant is 1360 W m⁻² and the Earth's average albedo is 0.30. What is the average intensity of solar radiation absorbed per square metre of the Earth's surface?
- A
238 W m⁻²
- B
340 W m⁻²
- C
952 W m⁻²
- D
1360 W m⁻²
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Answer overviewCorrect answer: A — 238 W m⁻²
01
1 markAnswer and reasoning
How to approach it
Predict from the governing principle before looking for a matching option. Then reject alternatives by checking direction, units, limiting behaviour or the physical meaning of each statement.
- 1
The correct choice is A: 238 W m⁻²
- 2
Two steps are needed and each is often missed. B applies the factor of 4 — the ratio of the Earth's surface area to the disc that intercepts the beam — but forgets the albedo. C applies the albedo but forgets the factor of 4.
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