What does the term 'albedo' refer to in environmental science?

The term 'albedo' specifically refers to the reflective capability of a surface. In environmental science, it is a crucial concept that measures how much sunlight is reflected from the surface without being absorbed. Surfaces with a high albedo, such as ice and snow, reflect most of the sunlight, contributing to a cooling effect in their environment. Conversely, darker surfaces like forests or oceans have a low albedo, absorbing more heat and, therefore, promoting warming. Understanding albedo is vital for comprehending climate dynamics and the effects of land cover changes on temperature and climate patterns.