Solar energy reaches Earth as shortwave radiation called insolation. The balance between insolation and terrestrial radiation emitted from Earth's surface is known as the heat budget, which helps regulate Earth's surface temperature. Temperature varies by location and is influenced by factors like latitude, altitude, ocean proximity, and winds. Water vapor in the atmosphere condenses to form precipitation like rain, snow, hail, or fog depending on temperature and conditions. Clouds are classified by height and composition.