EARTH'S ENERGY BUDGET — Name for reflected fraction The percentage of incoming solar radiation that the Earth–atmosphere system reflects back to space is called:

Introduction / Context:
Albedo is central to climate studies. It quantifies reflectivity: the higher the albedo, the more sunlight is reflected and the less energy is absorbed by the climate system.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question seeks the standard term for the globally reflected fraction.
• Usage varies: “planetary albedo” or “Earth’s albedo.”
• Exam phrasing typically prefers the general term.

Concept / Approach:
Planetary albedo refers to the reflectance of the entire planet–atmosphere system as seen from space. When speaking specifically about Earth, “Earth’s albedo” is contextually the same, but the canonical label in many keys is “planetary albedo.”

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the phenomenon: fraction of insolation reflected back.Match to the conventional term “planetary (planet’s) albedo.”Recognize that “Earth’s albedo” is a specific instance, but the question expects the general name.

Verification / Alternative check:
Energy-balance diagrams label the reflected portion by “planetary albedo,” often around one-third of incoming solar energy.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Both are similar terms” is imprecise; exam keys typically want the single standard term.“None of the above” and “planetary emissivity” do not denote reflectivity.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing emissivity (thermal radiation property) with albedo (solar reflectance).

Final Answer:
planet's albedo