The correct answer is:
D) It reflects solar energy which decreases global temperatures.
The geosphere, including the Earth's surface, soil, surface rocks and sediments, helps regulate the planet's temperature through various processes:
1. Absorption of solar energy: Some solar energy is absorbed by the geosphere, which does provide a slight warming effect. However, this is typically a small contribution compared to the atmosphere.
2. Reflection of solar energy: A larger portion of the solar energy reaching the geosphere is reflected back to space before being absorbed. This reflected energy does not contribute to warming the planet and in fact has a cooling effect.
3. Heat storage and distribution: The geosphere helps store heat and moderate temperature swings over surface areas and throughout the day-night cycle. But this acts to stabilize temperatures, not necessarily increase them.
4. Heat exchange with the atmosphere: The geosphere continuously exchanges heat with the atmosphere above it. But on average, there is little net transfer of heat either from or to the atmosphere.
So in summary, the effects of absorption and heat storage by the geosphere on global temperatures are minor. The largest impact is from reflecting solar energy back to space, which results in a net cooling influence.
So the correct choice is D: It reflects solar energy which decreases global temperatures.
Let me know if you have any other questions!