What type of energy does Earth primarily reradiate in the greenhouse effect?

The Earth primarily reradiates long wavelength heat (infrared) energy in the greenhouse effect. When solar radiation reaches the Earth's surface, it is absorbed and then the Earth warms up. As the surface temperature increases, the Earth emits energy back into space as infrared radiation, which has a longer wavelength compared to the incoming solar energy.

The greenhouse effect occurs when this long wavelength infrared energy is trapped by gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane. These greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit some of the infrared radiation, which helps to keep the Earth's surface warmer than it would be if this energy escaped directly into space. This process is essential for maintaining the planet's temperature and supporting life.

Understanding the distinction between the wavelengths of energy is crucial. Solar radiation primarily consists of visible light and short wavelength ultraviolet radiation, while the energy reradiated from Earth is predominantly in the infrared range.