Correct Option
Albedo refers to the fraction of solar radiation reflected by a surface. Surfaces with higher albedo reflect more sunlight. Fresh snow exhibits a very high albedo, typically ranging from 0.80 to 0.90, meaning it reflects 80-90% of incident solar radiation. This high reflectivity is due to its bright, crystalline structure. In comparison, sand deserts have an albedo of approximately 0.30-0.40, while vegetative surfaces like paddy fields and prairie lands have lower albedos, generally between 0.15 and 0.25. Therefore, land covered with fresh snow reflects significantly more sunlight than the other options.
Incorrect Options
(a) Sand desert: While sand deserts possess a relatively high albedo compared to vegetated areas, typically around 0.30-0.40, this value is considerably lower than the reflectivity of fresh snow.
(b) Paddy crop: Paddy fields, characterized by green vegetation and often standing water, exhibit a low albedo, generally in the range of 0.15-0.25. Green surfaces absorb a substantial portion of incident solar radiation for photosynthetic processes.
(d) Prairie land: Prairie lands, or natural grasslands, also demonstrate a low to moderate albedo, typically between 0.15 and 0.25. The presence of vegetation contributes to greater absorption of solar radiation compared to highly reflective surfaces such as fresh snow.