The scattered solar radiation is called

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Option D: Diffuse radiation

Explanation & Concepts:
Scattered solar radiation, also known as diffuse radiation, is the solar radiation received at the Earth's surface after its direction has been changed by scattering in the atmosphere. This scattering is primarily caused by atmospheric molecules, aerosols, and clouds interacting with incident direct solar rays.

Working Principle: As solar radiation enters the atmosphere, photons collide with gas molecules (Rayleigh scattering) and larger particles like dust or water droplets (Mie scattering). This process deflects the light from its original path, causing it to arrive at the surface from all directions of the sky dome rather than a single point source. Consequently, diffuse radiation is highly dependent on atmospheric clarity, cloud cover, and surface albedo.

Key Formulas: $I_{total} = I_{beam} + I_{diffuse} + I_{reflected}$ — Total global solar radiation received by a surface; $I_{beam} = I_{DN} \cdot \cos(	heta)$ — Beam component where $I_{DN}$ is direct normal irradiance

Key Points: Diffuse radiation is the portion of solar energy that does not reach the ground directly from the solar disc.; On completely overcast days, 100% of the horizontal solar radiation is diffuse.; Rayleigh scattering (short wavelengths) and Mie scattering (larger particles) are the primary mechanisms.

Advantages: Allows for solar energy collection even on cloudy days.; Reduces the intensity of direct glare on surfaces.

Disadvantages: Lower energy density compared to direct beam radiation.; Difficult to concentrate using traditional optical lenses or parabolic reflectors.

Applications: Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation; Passive solar building design; Atmospheric research and meteorology

Additional Info: Beam radiation refers to radiation received directly from the sun without scattering.. Infrared and Ultraviolet are classifications based on the wavelength spectrum, not the path of travel.. Under clear sky conditions, the diffuse component typically accounts for 10% to 20% of the total global radiation.

Answer: D is correct — The scattered solar radiation is termed as diffuse radiation.

Exam Tip: Always remember that in Solar Power plant calculations, the Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) is the sum of Beam (Direct) and Diffuse components.

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Option A: Beam Radiation

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Option B: Infrared radiation

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Option C: Ultraviolet radiation

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