ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors examine the nature of energy and how it is emitted by the sun. They study the mechanisms that carry this energy to all parts of Earth's global system. Virtually all the energy reaching Earth comes from the sun. Chemical energy represents a form of electrical energy bound up within the chemical structure of any substance. Solar energy is transmitted to Earth in the form of radiant energy. The input of energy to Earth at its mean distance from the sun is only an average value, for changes are taking place all the time. As a result of the absorption of solar energy in the atmosphere and at the surface, Earth will have gained energy that will be converted into heat. The sun performs work in heating Earth through its provision of radiant energy. Potential energy is derived from earth movements, for mountain building lifts the rock to leave it higher than the surrounding Earth surface.
