Yes, solar radiation is the primary source of heat for the Earth's lower atmosphere, also known as the troposphere. Here's how it works:

* Solar Radiation: The sun emits energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation travels through space and reaches Earth.

* Absorption: When solar radiation reaches Earth, some of it is absorbed by the surface, water bodies, and the atmosphere.

* Greenhouse Effect: Certain gases in the atmosphere, like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap some of the absorbed energy. This is called the greenhouse effect, and it's essential for keeping Earth warm enough to sustain life.

* Warming: The trapped energy warms the atmosphere from below, creating the temperature gradients that drive weather patterns.

In short, solar radiation heats the Earth's surface, which in turn warms the lower atmosphere through a combination of direct absorption and the greenhouse effect.