A new study shows that aerosols have a strong impact on the reflectivity of the Earth's atmosphere, absorbing more solar radiation within the atmospheric layers than previously thought.
aerosols & particles
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Aerosol Cutbacks May Bring Tropical Rains Farther North
Lower anthropogenic aerosol emissions in the 21st century may lead to warming that drives the Intertropical Convergence Zone northward.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
To Help Fix the Hole in the Ozone Layer, Just Add Ice
Computer simulations show that adding tiny droplets of ice to the atmosphere during the spring could help eliminate chlorofluorocarbons and repair the hole in the ozone layer.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Amazon Rain Forest Nourished by African Dust
New satellite data highlight the important role African dust plays in maintaining the rain forest's long-term health.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Regional Nuclear War Could Cause a Global Famine
A detonation of less than 0.03% of the current global nuclear arsenal could cause fires that clog the air with soot. This soot could block solar radiation, leading to worldwide crop shortages.
Posted inScience Updates
Fortifying International Collaborations on African Air Quality
First West African Workshop on Air Quality, Measurements, and Modeling; Abuja, Nigeria, 9–12 June 2014
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Precooled Aerosols Are Better Raindrop Nuclei
Cooling inorganic and organic aqueous solutions makes the particles into more robust seeds of clouds.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Reduced Emissions Lead to Clearer Skies over Alabama
Aerosol pollutants are on the decline—and so are their effects.
Posted inNews
Volcanic Eruptions Steer Conversations on Climate Intervention
Studies of volcanoes, Earth's natural climate coolers, cause scientists to question the merits of methods that intend to slow down climate change by injecting the stratosphere with aerosols.
Posted inFeatures
Urbanization and Air Pollution: Then and Now
Analysis of decades of mitigation efforts in Los Angeles demonstrates that air quality in megacities can be greatly improved.