Albedo and Earth’s Heat Budget
How can a change in albedo affect Earth’s heat budget?
Let’s say a forest is clear-cut to create a parking lot. What would happen to the albedo of that area?
This chart shows the albedo values for some common surfaces on Earth.
How would the albedo of an area change based on the scenario above?
B is Correct. The albedo of the forest is 15-20% and the albedo of the asphalt parking lot is 5-10%. This means that the asphalt would absorb more energy, rather than reflect it. When the asphalt heats up and releases that heat back into the atmosphere, the area will get warmer.