Discuss one role how radiation from the Sun impacts earth. (Pl
ants)
Radiation from the Sun is essential for the survival of plants on Earth. The sun provides energy in the form of light, heat, and other types of radiation such as ultraviolet and infrared rays. This radiation is absorbed by plants through a process called photosynthesis, which enables them to convert the energy into food to use for growth, reproduction, and survival.
Photosynthesis is a crucial process that begins when plants absorb sunlight through their leaves. Chlorophyll, a pigment found in the leaves, captures the sunlight and converts it into energy. This energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is combined with carbon dioxide from the air to create glucose, the basic energy source for plants.
Through photosynthesis, plants not only produce food for themselves, but also release oxygen into the atmosphere, which is a vital element for all other living organisms on Earth. Without the Sun's radiation providing the energy for photosynthesis, plants would not be able to survive, leading to a devastating impact on the planet's ecosystems.
Therefore, one of the primary roles of radiation from the Sun is to provide energy for photosynthesis and ultimately to sustain life on Earth.