Only about 50% of the solar energy directed toward Earth penetrates directly to the surface. Explain what happens to the rest of the radiation.

it is absorbed or reflected by the atmosphere

Explanation:

In the case when approx 50% only of the solar energy would be directed towards earth and it would be penetrates directly to the surface so the rest or remaining of the radiation would be either absorbed or refected by the atmosphere

So as per the given situation the above represent the answer

hence, the same is to be considered and relevant