What phenomenon describes the energy transfer from the sun that warms the Earth's surface?

The phenomenon that describes the energy transfer from the sun that warms the Earth's surface is radiation. Radiation is the process by which energy is emitted as particles or waves, specifically in the form of electromagnetic waves, which includes visible light and infrared radiation. The sun emits a significant amount of energy as radiation, which travels through the vacuum of space and reaches the Earth.

When this solar radiation hits the Earth's surface, it is absorbed, leading to an increase in temperature. This process is fundamental to the climate system, as it provides the necessary warmth that sustains life and drives weather patterns. In contrast, convection involves the transfer of heat through fluid movement, while conduction refers to heat transfer through direct contact between materials. Cyclonic activity pertains to the large-scale circulations in the atmosphere, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, which are driven by various atmospheric conditions rather than direct solar energy transfer.