1.3.2 Greenhouse effect The Greenhouse Effect Solar radiation powers Some of the Infrared the climate system. SUN radlation passes through the atmosphere but most is absorbed and re-emitted in all directions by greenhouse gas molecules and clouds The effect of this is to Some solar radiation warm the Earth's surface is reflected by and the lower atmosphere. the Earth and the atmosphere. ATMOSPHERE EARTH About half the solar radiation is absorbed by the Earth's surface and warms it Infrared radiation is emitted from the Earth's surface. FAQ 1.3,Figure 1.An idealised model of the natural greenhouse effect.See text for explanation.1.3.2 Greenhouse effect