Solar radiation, as a fundamental component of electromagnetic radiant energy, plays a crucial role in various fields, including climate science, renewable energy, and Earth system modeling. This comprehensive survey examines the current state of knowledge regarding solar radiation concepts within the broader context of electromagnetic radiant energy. The paper synthesizes research from over 200 peer-reviewed articles, covering topics such as spectral distribution of solar radiation, atmospheric interactions, measurement techniques, and applications in solar energy technologies. Key findings include recent advancements in spectral measurement accuracy, improved modeling of atmospheric effects on solar radiation, and novel applications of solar spectral data in photovoltaic design. The survey also identifies critical research gaps, particularly in understanding the impacts of aerosols and clouds on spectral distribution and in developing more accurate long-term solar radiation forecasting methods. This work provides a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in solar energy, atmospheric sciences, and related fields, offering insights into the complex interplay between solar radiation and the Earth's atmosphere and highlighting directions for future research.