Particles from space seed cloud formation and greenhouse

In summary, the author does not believe that cloud formation by particles from space is the cause of global warming. They argue that there is evidence that correlation exists between climate and solar magnetic activity, but the activity from man-made sources is much more important.
  • #1
verdigris
119
0
I don't believe the cloud formation by particles from space idea because why would they be doing this now (we'd have to be unlucky given geological timescales) and why isn't there evidence of this in the past.
 
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  • #2
verdigris said:
I don't believe the cloud formation by particles from space idea because why would they be doing this now (we'd have to be unlucky given geological timescales) and why isn't there evidence of this in the past.
It would help if you posted a link to an article describing what you are talking about. I only vaguely remember reading something about this.
 
  • #3
http://www.sciencebits.com/SkyResults.

The idea is that condensation of water vapor in the air requires some inducement to start. This can be a dust particle or something but a charged ion works very well too. It is argued that the induced solar magnetism varies with the flare / sunspot activity. This would cause the solar emitted charged particles which are heading for moderate latitudes on Earth to deviate to the poles, creating the auroras. With less condensation nuclei for the lower latitudes, cloud forming is inhibited, allowing for more sunlight to hit the Earth surface and consequently more global warming.

I don't believe the cloud formation by particles from space idea.

"Believe" is not a good practice for discovering how the Earth works. Consider it a set of N not linear equations with M variables and likely M>>N. Approaching that with the preconception that X <> A is unlikely to help solving it. Moreover there is evidence that climate and solar magnetic activity correlate.
 
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  • #4
The paper says that the evidence is strongest for a correlation between climate and cosmic rays on a millenial scale.But how inportant are cosmic rays in seeding cloud formation compared to dust particles from earth,for example?
 
  • #5
Man activity in producing aerosols and dust particles due to industrial activity would very well exceed CR. Its deposited right into troposphere.

Cloud condensation nucleii (CCNs) and the whole process does not even seem to be that easy. More nucleii does not mean more clouds!
 
  • #6
"More nucleii does not mean more clouds!"

Yes.Otherwise the dirtiest industrial regions would always be the cloudiest.
 

1. What are particles from space seed cloud formation?

Particles from space are small, microscopic particles that originate from outer space. These particles can come from a variety of sources, such as comets, meteorites, and interstellar dust. When these particles enter Earth's atmosphere, they can act as nuclei for cloud formation, leading to the creation of new clouds or the enhancement of existing ones.

2. How do particles from space affect cloud formation?

When particles from space enter Earth's atmosphere, they can act as nuclei for water droplets to form around. This process is known as nucleation and can lead to the creation of new clouds or the enhancement of existing ones. These particles can also increase the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere, leading to more moisture available for cloud formation.

3. Can particles from space contribute to the greenhouse effect?

Yes, particles from space can contribute to the greenhouse effect. When these particles enter Earth's atmosphere, they can absorb and scatter incoming solar radiation, trapping heat in the atmosphere. This contributes to the warming of the planet, known as the greenhouse effect.

4. Are particles from space a significant factor in global warming?

While particles from space can contribute to the greenhouse effect, they are not a significant factor in global warming. Other human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, are responsible for the majority of the increase in greenhouse gases and subsequent warming of the planet.

5. How do scientists study particles from space and their effects on cloud formation and the greenhouse effect?

Scientists use a variety of methods to study particles from space and their effects on Earth's atmosphere. This includes collecting samples of particles, using satellites to track their movement, and conducting experiments in controlled environments. Researchers also use computer models to simulate the interactions between particles from space, clouds, and the greenhouse effect.

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