Clouds absorb the radiation released from the Earth's surface.
B
Clouds reflect back the Earth's radiation.
C
The Earth's surface would have low temperature on cloudy nights.
D
Clouds deflect the blowing wind to ground level.
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1. Dewdrops form when the Earth's surface cools down sufficiently, usually by radiating heat away at night, reaching a temperature below the dew point of the surrounding air. This causes water vapor in the air to condense onto the surface.
2. On a clear night, the Earth's surface radiates heat effectively into space, allowing it to cool rapidly.
3. On a cloudy night, clouds act like a blanket. They absorb the longwave radiation released from the Earth's surface and then re-radiate (or reflect) a significant portion of it back towards the surface.
4. This process reduces the net loss of heat from the Earth's surface, preventing it from cooling down enough to reach the dew point.
5. Therefore, dewdrops are less likely to be formed on a cloudy night because clouds reflect back (or re-radiate) the Earth's radiation, keeping the surface warmer.