Energy balance: Snowpack and radiation

This lecture covers the energy balance in snowpacks, focusing on the thermodynamic state, energy transfer, and mass balance during accumulation and ablation periods. It also discusses the mechanisms of energy transfer, including radiation properties and Kirchhoff's law. The lecture delves into the main factors affecting terrestrial energy exchange, such as air temperature, water vapor, wind, radiation, and soil temperature. Additionally, it explores concepts like net shortwave radiation, albedo, and spectral albedo in relation to snow albedo and grain size effects. The importance of understanding these energy balance principles in snow-covered environments is crucial for predicting snowmelt and water release.