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An Overview
of Climate Processes The amount of energy reaching the surface of the Earth can vary because of (1) internal processes within the sun, (2) changes in the Earth's orbit, such as the tilt of the axis (see Climate Science 100,000), or (3) changes within Earth's environment and climate system, such as major volcanic activity that cause dust to block the sun's energy or changes in the composition of the atmosphere. The Earth's
energy balance is complex depending on the type of radiation entering
into the system (see figure below). Overall about 30% of energy overall
is reflected back to space, with 70% being absorbed by the atmosphere
and surface of the planet. Also see Graphic Overview
of Earth's Climate System.
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