1. What is Planet Surface Temperature?

The planet surface temperature is determined by the equilibrium temperature (from stellar radiation) plus atmospheric effects (greenhouse effect or other atmospheric influences). It represents the actual temperature at the planet's surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple equation:

Where:

• \( T \) — Surface temperature (K)
• \( \text{Equilibrium} \) — Equilibrium temperature from stellar radiation (K)
• \( \text{Atmospheric Effects} \) — Temperature change due to atmosphere (K)

Explanation: The equilibrium temperature is what the planet's temperature would be without an atmosphere, while atmospheric effects account for greenhouse warming or other atmospheric influences.

3. Importance of Temperature Calculation

Details: Calculating surface temperature is crucial for understanding planetary habitability, climate modeling, and exoplanet characterization.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter equilibrium temperature and atmospheric effects in Kelvin. Both values can be positive or negative (for cooling effects).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is equilibrium temperature?
A: The temperature a planet would have if it were a black body heated only by its parent star, with no atmosphere.

Q2: What are typical atmospheric effects?
A: Earth has about +33K from greenhouse effects. Venus has extreme greenhouse warming (+500K), while Mars has minimal atmospheric effects.

Q3: Can atmospheric effects be negative?
A: Yes, some atmospheric compositions or cloud cover can result in net cooling compared to the equilibrium temperature.

Q4: What are limitations of this simple model?
A: It doesn't account for surface albedo variations, atmospheric circulation, or time-dependent effects like day-night cycles.

Q5: How is this used in exoplanet studies?
A: This basic calculation helps estimate surface temperatures when detailed atmospheric data isn't available.