Greenhouse Effect Calculator

Calculate Surface Temperature (T)





Formula

The formula to estimate the surface temperature (T) due to the greenhouse effect is:

\[ T = \left( \frac{(1 - A) \cdot S \cdot (1 + G)}{4 \cdot \sigma} \right)^{0.25} \]

Where:

What is the Greenhouse Effect?

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms a planet’s surface. When the Sun’s energy reaches the planet, some of it is reflected back to space and the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases. The greenhouse effect results in higher temperatures than would be expected from solar radiation alone. It is a critical factor in maintaining a habitable climate on Earth and other planets.

Example Calculation

Let's assume the following values:

Using the formula to calculate the Surface Temperature:

\[ T = \left( \frac{(1 - 0.3) \cdot 1361 \cdot (1 + 0.2)}{4 \cdot 5.6703e-8} \right)^{0.25} = \left( \frac{0.7 \cdot 1361 \cdot 1.2}{4 \cdot 5.6703e-8} \right)^{0.25} = \left( \frac{1142.28}{2.26812e-7} \right)^{0.25} \approx 266.45 \text{ K} \]

The estimated surface temperature is approximately 266.45 K.