Q.52 Is it true that there is more solar energy available in the tropics? Explain
briefly.

Ans. Yes, there is more solar energy available in the tropics because

(i) The sun's rays are more concentrated.

(ii) The sun's rays have less atmosphere to pass through, so less energy is lost in absorption and reflection by the atmosphere.

(iii) Tropical rainforest areas absorb radiations due to the presence of dense vegetation. The availability of more solar energy in tropics contributes higher productivity which in turn might contribute greater maximum biodiversity.