Can Certain Gases Diminish the Greenhouse Effect?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential for certain gases to diminish the greenhouse effect, exploring the roles of various atmospheric components and their interactions. Participants examine both theoretical and practical implications of gases like sulfate aerosols and dimethyl sulfide in relation to greenhouse gas dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the existence of a "negative greenhouse gas," suggesting that a gas either absorbs infrared radiation (IR) or it does not.
  • Water vapor and clouds are noted for their ability to reflect sunlight back into space, contributing to discussions about their dual role in the greenhouse effect.
  • Participants propose that sulfate aerosols, which can nucleate clouds and increase albedo, may diminish the greenhouse effect, with specific gases like SO2 and dimethyl sulfide mentioned as precursors.
  • There is a query regarding the origin of some sulfate aerosols, specifically whether they are products of oceanic microbes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the concept of gases that can diminish the greenhouse effect, with some supporting the idea of sulfate aerosols while others remain skeptical about the existence of negative greenhouse gases. The discussion does not reach a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of greenhouse gases and the specific mechanisms by which certain gases may influence the greenhouse effect. The role of clouds and aerosols in climate dynamics is also complex and not fully agreed upon.

Loren Booda
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Whereas atmospheric water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane and ozone contribute to the greenhouse effect, is there any gas which diminishes it?
 
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Not sure it is really possible for there to be a negative greenhouse gas. A gas either absorbs IR or it doesn't!
 
Water vapor, aka clouds, reflect light from the sun back into outer space rather effectively.
 
Topher925 said:
Water vapor, aka clouds, reflect light from the sun back into outer space rather effectively.
...and back to earth, though clouds are not technically "water vapor".

The reason water vapor makes for a good greenhouse gas is that it is transparent to visible light but not very transparent to IR, so the light goes through the atmosphere and hits the earth, then the heat radiated from the Earth is trapped by the water vapor.
 
Loren Booda said:
Whereas atmospheric water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane and ozone contribute to the greenhouse effect, is there any gas which diminishes it?

Sulfate aerosols do this. They nucleate clouds in an atmosphere that also contains water vapor. Therefore, I believe that SO2 is the gas you are looking for. Dimethyl sulfide is another one. Both of these gases are precursor gases to a sulfate aerosol that condenses clouds and increases albedo.
 
chemisttree said:
Sulfate aerosols do this. They nucleate clouds in an atmosphere that also contains water vapor. Therefore, I believe that SO2 is the gas you are looking for. Dimethyl sulfide is another one. Both of these gases are precursor gases to a sulfate aerosol that condenses clouds and increases albedo.
Aren't some sulfate aerosols products of oceanic microbes?
 
Loren Booda said:
Aren't some sulfate aerosols products of oceanic microbes?

Dimethyl sulfide is ...
 
Topher925 said:
Water vapor, aka clouds, reflect light from the sun back into outer space rather effectively.

thank you for your message
 
could i get water immedietly if i react hydrogen with oxygen in laboratory?
 
  • #10
Water is a product of this reaction, so in a way yes - you have it immediately. Fast and loud.

--
 
  • #11
Borek said:
Water is a product of this reaction, so in a way yes - you have it immediately. Fast and loud.

...and a little bit on the warm side for most people's tastes.
 

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