NCERT Class 7 Geography — Chapter 1: Air

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"Insolation" is an important factor that influences the distribution of temperature. What does it refer to?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AThe amount of moisture present in the air.
BThe pressure exerted by the air on the earth's surface.
CThe heat released by the earth at night.
DThe incoming solar energy intercepted by the earth.

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is

The incoming solar energy intercepted by the earth.

Explanation

The earth receives energy from the sun primarily in the form of shortwave radiation. This energy is the fundamental source for atmospheric processes and temperature distribution on the planet.

Analysis of Options:

The incoming solar energy intercepted by the earth. is Correct: The term "Insolation" is an acronym derived from Incoming Solar Radiation. It specifically refers to the solar energy that is intercepted by the earth. The amount of insolation received determines the thermal conditions of the earth's surface and atmosphere.
The heat released by the earth at night. is Incorrect: The heat released by the earth back into space, particularly at night, is referred to as Terrestrial Radiation. This occurs in the form of longwaves.
The amount of moisture present in the air. is Incorrect: The amount of water vapor or moisture present in the air is defined as Humidity.
The pressure exerted by the air on the earth's surface. is Incorrect: The weight or force exerted by the column of air on the earth's surface is known as Atmospheric Pressure.

Key Takeaway: Insolation stands for Incoming Solar Radiation, which is the flow of solar energy intercepted by the earth, typically in the form of shortwaves.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Air

With reference to the composition of the atmosphere, consider the following statements: 1. Nitrogen is the most plentiful gas in the air. 2. Carbon dioxide and argon together make up the bulk of the atmosphere. 3. Helium and hydrogen are present in the atmosphere in lesser quantities than nitrogen. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

easy

Which of the following gases is primarily responsible for the "greenhouse effect" by trapping the heat radiated from the earth?

easy

Consider the following statements regarding the circulation of air: 1. When air is heated, it contracts and becomes heavier. 2. Cold air is denser and tends to sink down. 3. Air circulation occurs when cold air from surrounding areas rushes to fill the gap left by rising hot air. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the nitrogen cycle in the atmosphere, consider the following statements: 1. Plants absorb nitrogen directly from the air through their leaves. 2. Bacteria living in the soil and roots of some plants change the form of nitrogen for plant use. 3. Humans absorb all the nitrogen they inhale during breathing. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which one of the following best explains why the balance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is getting disturbed?

easy

Keep practising Chapter 1: Air

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The correct option is

The incoming solar energy intercepted by the earth.

Explanation

The earth receives energy from the sun primarily in the form of shortwave radiation. This energy is the fundamental source for atmospheric processes and temperature distribution on the planet.

Analysis of Options:

The incoming solar energy intercepted by the earth. is Correct: The term "Insolation" is an acronym derived from Incoming Solar Radiation. It specifically refers to the solar energy that is intercepted by the earth. The amount of insolation received determines the thermal conditions of the earth's surface and atmosphere.
The heat released by the earth at night. is Incorrect: The heat released by the earth back into space, particularly at night, is referred to as Terrestrial Radiation. This occurs in the form of longwaves.
The amount of moisture present in the air. is Incorrect: The amount of water vapor or moisture present in the air is defined as Humidity.
The pressure exerted by the air on the earth's surface. is Incorrect: The weight or force exerted by the column of air on the earth's surface is known as Atmospheric Pressure.

Key Takeaway: Insolation stands for Incoming Solar Radiation, which is the flow of solar energy intercepted by the earth, typically in the form of shortwaves.