ABSTRACT
The energy-balance equation applies either to instantaneous conditions or to fluxes averaged over some period, such as a day or year. A zero heat-storage term G means that temperatures are steady, and the balance equation becomes simply the statement that inputs and outputs are equal, as in the case of the entire Earth. An energy-balance equation permits deducing any one of the terms from a knowledge of the others. The energy-balance equation applies to each zone, with the total input exactly equal to the total output. The chapter discusses the effects of preventing evaporation at the surface, altering the ground’s albedo, and differences due to the orientation of sloping ground. A layer of oil on a lake greatly reduces evaporation, and a clear-plastic cover has the same effect on a ground surface.
