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IB Physics SL B.2.3 Albedo Question Bank

Practise IB Physics SL B.2.3 by calculating albedo from reflected and incident radiation and applying it to planetary energy-balance problems.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • Calculate albedo from incident and reflected intensity, then find absorbed or radiated power.
  • Use albedo with solar intensity and energy balance to analyse planetary temperature and surface changes.

B.2.3—Albedo question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

The Moon has no atmosphere and orbits the Earth. The diagram shows the Moon with rays of light from the Sun that are incident at 90∘90^{\circ} to the axis of rotation of the Moon.

Figure for Question B.2.3—Albedo question 1 — IB Physics SL

The albedo of the Earth's atmosphere is 0.28 . Outline why the maximum temperature of a black body on the Earth when the Sun is overhead is less than that at point A on the Moon.

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