Here's a breakdown of where the solar radiation goes:
* Earth's Surface (51%): This includes land and water. The amount of solar radiation absorbed by the surface depends on factors like the color and reflectivity of the surface.
* Clouds (20%): Clouds reflect some solar radiation back to space.
* Atmosphere (23%): Gases in the atmosphere, like water vapor and carbon dioxide, absorb some solar radiation.
* Reflected Back to Space (6%): Some solar radiation is reflected back to space by clouds, the Earth's surface, and the atmosphere.
So, while the atmosphere plays a role, the Earth's surface is the largest absorber of solar radiation. This absorbed energy is what drives the Earth's climate system and sustains life.