A. Energy from within the earth
B. The sun
C. Erupting volcanoes
D. Lightning discharges associated with thunderstorms
E. Latent heat released during the formation of hurricanes
The Sun is the primary source of energy for Earth’s climate system is the first of seven Essential Principles of Climate Sciences. Principle 1 sets the stage for understanding Earth’s climate system and energy balance. The Sun warms the planet, drives the hydrologic cycle, and makes life on Earth possible.