Correct Option
Statement 1 is correct. Albedo refers to the fraction of incident electromagnetic radiation, particularly solar radiation, that is reflected by a surface or object. A higher albedo indicates greater reflectivity, causing an object to appear brighter when viewed with reflected light. Conversely, an object with a lower albedo absorbs more light and appears darker.
Incorrect Options
Statement 2 is incorrect. The albedo of Earth is approximately 0.30, largely due to the presence of reflective features such as clouds, ice caps, snow, and oceans. In contrast, Mercury has a significantly lower albedo, around 0.10. Its surface is dark and rocky, and it lacks a substantial atmosphere or cloud cover to reflect incoming solar radiation, making it less reflective than Earth.
Option (b) is incorrect because Statement 2 is false.
Option (c) is incorrect because only Statement 1 is correct.
Option (d) is incorrect because Statement 1 is correct.