Which type of energy transfer is primarily responsible for bringing energy from the Sun to Earth's surface?

• A. Radiation
• B. Conduction
• C. Convection
• D. Evaporation

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the three main types of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction involves direct contact between materials, convection involves the movement of fluids (liquids or gases), and radiation involves energy transfer through electromagnetic waves without needing a medium.
2. Recognize that space between the Sun and Earth is a vacuum, meaning there is no medium (like air or water) for conduction or convection to occur.
3. Since conduction and convection require a medium to transfer heat, they cannot be responsible for energy transfer through the vacuum of space.
4. Identify that radiation is the only method that can transfer energy through empty space by electromagnetic waves, such as visible light and infrared radiation emitted by the Sun.
5. Conclude that the primary type of energy transfer from the Sun to Earth's surface is radiation.