Energy Imbalance — Equator vs Poles

Near the equator, sunlight arrives more directly on average. The same solar energy is concentrated over a smaller surface area. Near the poles, sunlight arrives at a lower angle and is spread over a larger area. This produces a latitudinal energy imbalance. The atmosphere and oceans transport energy from lower latitudes toward higher latitudes. Important mechanisms include: atmospheric circulation; weather systems; * ocean currents. Without this redistribution, temperature differences between equator and poles would be much larger.

Conceptually: **Net radiation = absorbed solar − outgoing infrared** Low latitudes → often net surplus. High latitudes → often net deficit.