The energy that warms Earth's surface comes primarily in the form of __________.

• A. chemical energy
• B. kinetic energy
• C. nuclear energy
• D. electromagnetic radiation

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that energy reaching Earth's surface primarily comes from the Sun.
2. Recall that the Sun emits energy in the form of electromagnetic waves, which include visible light, ultraviolet light, and infrared radiation.
3. Recognize that this form of energy is called electromagnetic radiation, which can travel through the vacuum of space to reach Earth.
4. Differentiate electromagnetic radiation from other forms of energy such as chemical energy (stored in bonds), kinetic energy (energy of motion), and nuclear energy (energy from nuclear reactions).
5. Conclude that the energy warming Earth's surface is primarily electromagnetic radiation because it is the form of energy transmitted from the Sun to Earth.