Question

How does cloud cover affect how much infrared light is reflected back to the ground?

Answer 1

Cloud inclusion can run, in expanding level of the sky, from clear skies to dissipated mists to broken mists to cloudy skies. Regardless of whether the impact of mists causes warming or cooling relies upon the measure of cloud inclusion, the span of cloud inclusion, and the season of day. Infrared light is a small part of the light spectrum.  When it reaches the Earth, some is reflected back to space by clouds, some is absorbed by the atmosphere, and some is absorbed at the Earth's surface. However, since the Earth is much cooler than the Sun, its radiating energy is much weaker (long wavelength) infrared energy.