Figure 3.35

Cloud greenhouse forcing. This satellite image shows outgoing longwave terrestrial radiation in watts per square meter (W/m2), averaged for March 2000. The equatorial regions shown in blue and purple are blanketed by thick clouds that reduce heat loss. Mid- and high latitudes have less heat to lose than the tropics and subtropics.
(NASA image courtesy Takmeng Wongand the CERES Science Team at NASA LangleyResearch Center)