The Earth receives energy from the Sun called _______ in the form of radiation. This energy is what changes the temperature of water and land. Water and land heat up at _______ rates because they are made of different materials. When the Earth’s surface heats up, some of that energy is absorbed by the atmosphere. The air that is hot rises, and the cold air _______.

The Earth receives energy from the Sun called solar energy in the form of radiation. This energy is what changes the temperature of water and land. Water and land heat up at different rates because they are made of different materials. When the Earth’s surface heats up, some of that energy is absorbed by the atmosphere. The air that is hot rises, and the cold air sinks.

Explanation: Solar energy is the energy that comes from the Sun in the form of light and heat. The different rates of heating between land and water are due to their specific heat capacities—water requires more energy to heat up compared to land. As warm air rises, it creates a convection current, causing cooler air to sink in response.