Global Warming

Solar reflectivity, also known as albedo, refers to the amount of sunlight that is reflected by a surface or object back into space. It is a measure of the reflectance of solar radiation and is expressed as a percentage or a decimal value between 0 and 1. 

Different surfaces and materials have varying degrees of reflectivity. Light-colored or highly reflective surfaces, such as ice, snow, or clouds, have high albedo and reflect a significant portion of incoming solar radiation. In contrast, dark or less reflective surfaces, such as asphalt or forests, have low albedo and absorb more solar radiation. The concept of solar reflectivity is important in understanding the Earth's energy balance and its impact on climate. Surfaces with high reflectivity help to cool the planet by preventing the absorption of excessive solar heat. This is particularly relevant in the context of climate change, as the melting of highly reflective surfaces like glaciers and sea ice can lead to a decrease in albedo and contribute to further warming.

Source: 

• https://www.nrdc.org/stories/global-warming-101
• https://ugc.berkeley.edu/background-content/reflection-absorption-sunlight/#:~:text=Overall%2C%20Earth%20reflects%20about%2029,of%20sunlight%20back%20into%20space.
• https://pgcc.libguides.com/c.php?g=665887&p=4683236
• https://www.imperial.ac.uk/media/imperial-college/grantham-institute/public/publications/briefing-papers/Solar-Influences-on-Climate---Grantham-BP-5.pdf