What is the primary driver of weather on Earth?

The primary driver of weather on Earth is the sun's radiation. The sun provides the energy that powers the Earth's atmosphere and drives the processes that lead to weather phenomena. When solar energy reaches the Earth, it heats the surface and, in turn, the atmosphere. This heating creates temperature gradients that result in air movement, which is essential for wind and convection currents.

As warm air rises, cooler air rushes in to replace it, contributing to the formation of clouds, precipitation, and various atmospheric conditions that we recognize as weather. Additionally, solar energy influences ocean temperatures, which can strengthen or weaken weather patterns through interactions between the atmosphere and oceans. The sun's radiation is fundamental in establishing the balance and variability of weather patterns across different regions of the planet.

Other factors like ocean currents and geothermal energy can influence specific weather patterns or phenomena but are not the primary drivers in the way solar radiation is. Volcanic activity can have temporary effects on climate and weather, particularly through ash and gases that can obscure sunlight, but it does not serve as the main energy source for day-to-day weather changes.