solar constant

noun

: the quantity of radiant solar energy received at the outer layer of the earth's atmosphere that has a mean value of 1370 watts per square meter

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web In some cases, Matthews said, the stations have registered levels of solar radiation equal to or exceeding the solar constant - that is, the amount of sunlight scientists expect to see at the outermost limits of Earth's atmosphere. —

Maddie Stone, Anchorage Daily News, 13 Dec. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'solar constant.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of solar constant was in 1869

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Dictionary Entries Near solar constant

solar compass

solar constant

solar corona

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Solar constant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solar%20constant. Accessed 23 Mar. 2023.

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