Which of the following best describes the primary source of energy for Earth's climate system?
Solar radiation
Geothermal heat
Tidal forces
Human activities
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Solar radiation delivers approximately 99.97% of Earth's climate system energy. The sun emits electromagnetic waves, primarily in visible and infrared spectra, absorbed by Earth's surface and atmosphere. This energy fuels atmospheric circulation, ocean currents, and the hydrological cycle, establishing temperature gradients that drive global weather and climate patterns. Sunspot cycles cause minor variations but affirm solar dominance.
Choice B reason: Geothermal heat, from radioactive decay in Earth's core and mantle plus residual formation heat, contributes only about 0.025% to the climate energy budget. It powers volcanic activity and tectonic processes, with localized effects like geothermal springs, but its role in atmospheric or oceanic circulation is negligible compared to solar radiation’s extensive influence.
Choice C reason: Tidal forces, driven by gravitational interactions between Earth, the moon, and the sun, produce oceanic tides, contributing less than 0.001% to the climate system’s energy. Tides influence coastal mixing but lack the magnitude to drive atmospheric circulation or global climate, making them insignificant compared to solar radiation’s vast energy input.
Choice D reason: Human activities, such as fossil fuel burning and deforestation, release greenhouse gases, altering climate by trapping solar heat. These are secondary effects, not primary energy sources, with negligible direct energy contribution. They modify solar radiation absorption, acting as feedback mechanisms, not independent drivers like the sun’s direct energy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assisting with mobility and safety is critical in multiple sclerosis, as muscle weakness and spasticity increase fall risk. Physical therapy and assistive devices enhance safety, reducing injury risk, making it the priority intervention to maintain independence and prevent complications like fractures.
Choice B reason: A high-sodium diet is inappropriate, as it may exacerbate fluid retention, unrelated to multiple sclerosis. Mobility assistance is the priority, as falls are a significant risk due to neurological deficits, making dietary sodium irrelevant to primary symptom management.
Choice C reason: Restricting physical therapy worsens mobility and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Assisting with mobility and safety is critical, as it prevents falls and maintains function, making therapy restriction counterproductive, as exercise supports neurological health and independence.
Choice D reason: Promoting bed rest increases muscle atrophy and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Mobility and safety measures are essential, as they reduce fall risk and maintain function, making bed rest detrimental to managing neurological symptoms and overall patient well-being.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Palpating for joint warmth and swelling is the best technique for early rheumatoid arthritis, as it detects synovitis, a hallmark of the disease. Inflamed joints are warm, swollen, and tender due to autoimmune-driven synovial proliferation, enabling early identification and intervention to prevent joint damage.
Choice B reason: Measuring range of motion assesses joint function but is less specific for early rheumatoid arthritis. Reduced motion occurs later, after significant synovial inflammation or damage. Palpating for warmth and swelling directly identifies active synovitis, making it more effective for early detection.
Choice C reason: Assessing grip strength evaluates muscle and joint function but is nonspecific for early rheumatoid arthritis. Weakness may result from pain or later joint damage. Palpating for warmth and swelling targets synovial inflammation, the earliest sign, making it the preferred technique for early diagnosis.
Choice D reason: Observing gait and posture detects functional limitations but is not specific for early rheumatoid arthritis. Gait changes occur with advanced disease or other conditions. Palpating for joint warmth and swelling directly identifies synovial inflammation, the primary early feature, making it more diagnostic.
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