page 5 of 16\nquestion 4\n4 points\nthe maximum amount of sunlight received by dekalb is in late june, yet…

page 5 of 16\nquestion 4\n4 points\nthe maximum amount of sunlight received by dekalb is in late june, yet the highest temperatures are in early july; why is this?\na the most direct rays of the sun dont hit the earth until july.\nb the earths tilt is greatest in july.\nc the earth is closer to the sun in july.\nd there is a lag between maximum solar radiation received and greatest temperatures due to earths energy balance.

page 5 of 16\nquestion 4\n4 points\nthe maximum amount of sunlight received by dekalb is in late june, yet the highest temperatures are in early july; why is this?\na the most direct rays of the sun dont hit the earth until july.\nb the earths tilt is greatest in july.\nc the earth is closer to the sun in july.\nd there is a lag between maximum solar radiation received and greatest temperatures due to earths energy balance.

Answer

Brief Explanations:

The Earth's surface and atmosphere need time to absorb and re - radiate solar energy. Even though maximum sunlight is received in late June, it takes a bit more time for the system to reach its peak temperature due to the energy balance and heat - up process. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as the most direct rays hit around the summer solstice (late June), the Earth's tilt doesn't change significantly in such a short time - span, and the Earth's distance from the Sun isn't the main factor for this short - term temperature lag.

Answer:

D. There is a lag between maximum solar radiation received and greatest temperatures due to Earth's energy balance.