Albedos

/ælˈbeɪdoʊz/ noun

Definition

The plural of albedo; multiple measurements or instances of how much light is reflected from different surfaces.

Etymology

From Spanish 'albedo' meaning 'whiteness,' derived from Latin 'albus' (white). The term entered scientific English in the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Comparing albedos of different planets tells us which ones are sweltering ovens and which are frozen wastelands—Venus's thick clouds reflect so much light that it's the brightest planet, not because it's closer to the sun!

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