Atmospheric Aerosol Loading Flashcards
Identify the control variable for atmospheric aerosol loading, and explain why we can not yet quantify the planetary boundary.
The control variable for atmospheric aerosol loading is Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD). However, we cannot yet quantify the planetary boundary for aerosols because human activity levels have doubled the global concentration of aerosols since the pre-industrial era
Describe what atmospheric aerosols are and why they are important to monitor.
Aerosols are tiny particles suspended in the atmosphere, including sea salt, volcanic dust, desert dust, and human-made aerosols from activities like burning coal and oil.
They influence the climate system and have adverse effects on humans and animals
Identify both natural and anthropogenic sources of atmospheric aerosols.
Desert dust, forest fires, and industrial emissions.
Explain how aerosols are detected and measured.
Scientists use satellites equipped with radiometers to measure the amount of light that aerosols scatter and absorb in the atmosphere, known as Aerosol Optical Thickness.
Describe, using a map, the patterns of aerosols in the atmosphere.
Aerosols can remain suspended in the atmosphere for a short period but can travel long distances due to atmospheric transport.
Identify both direct and indirect effects of aerosols on climate and the hydrologic cycle.
Aerosols have both direct and indirect effects on climate, including influencing regional precipitation patterns, reflecting sunlight, and absorbing radiation.
Identify effects of aerosols on human health.
Respiratory diseases and premature deaths.
