insolation

Definition

The incident radiant energy emitted by the sun which reaches a unit area over a period of time, typically measured over a horizontal area at the Earth's surface or at the top of Earth's atmosphere.

Etymology

Borrowed from French insolation, from Latin insolatio (“a setting or placing in the sun”).

Example Sentences

• "The difference in insolation between north-facing and south-facing slopes can affect microclimates as much as hundreds of miles of north-south distance on level ground."