Cleaner ship fuel changed clouds, but not their climate balance
Researchers found clouds in North Atlantic region formed with fewer, larger droplets, yet remained unchanged in reflectivity; overall water content increased to maintain balance.
Atmospheric Aerosols
Articles tagged with Atmospheric Aerosols
Life Sciences
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
447,757
articles
2542
topics
Health and Medicine
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
431,843
articles
751
topics
Social Sciences
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
260,756
articles
745
topics
Physical Sciences
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
257,913
articles
1552
topics
Applied Sciences and Engineering
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
225,386
articles
998
topics
Scientific Community
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
193,043
articles
157
topics
Space Sciences
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
29,662
articles
175
topics
Research Methods
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
21,889
articles
139
topics
Mathematics
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
3,023
articles
113
topics
Arctic cloud and ice formation affected by Russian river runoff as region studied for first time
A recent study found that organic matter carried from rivers into the Arctic Ocean creates more clouds and keeps the region cooler. Aerosol particles formed by this biological matter act as 'seeds' for cloud formation, increasing their ability to form bright, long-lasting clouds.
When trade routes shift, so do clouds: Florida State University researchers uncover ripple effects of new global shipping regulations
New research published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics reveals that cleaner fuels have reduced ship emissions' influence on cloud formation, helping refine global climate models. The study found a 67% decrease in cloud-altering abilities after the IMO regulations went into effect.
Climate intervention techniques could reduce the nutritional value of crops
A new study suggests that stratospheric aerosol intervention (SAI) could decrease the protein content of major crops like maize, rice, wheat, and soybeans. SAI would involve releasing sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere to cool the planet, but this could have unintended consequences on global food security.
When waves meet the shore
Researchers found that strong wave breaking along shorelines produces significant amounts of sea spray aerosols, increasing cloud condensation nuclei and aerosol mass concentration. This can lead to gross overestimations of sea spray aerosols in open oceans using coastal measurements.
Cleaner East Asian air unmasks a much hotter planet
A new study finds that cleaner air in East Asia, particularly China, has contributed to the recent acceleration in global warming. The region's aerosol reductions account for most of the observed warming since 2010, even after accounting for natural fluctuation events.
Pollution from the Tijuana river affects air quality in San Diego
A new study reveals that pollutants from the Tijuana River are transmitted to both water and air through coastal aerosols, affecting public health and environment. The study found high levels of illicit drugs, personal care products, and chemicals in aerosols, posing risks to residents living near the border.
Climate change: Penguin guano may help reduce effects of climate change in Antarctica
Measuring ammonia concentration near an Adelie penguin colony found increased levels when wind blew from the colony, suggesting a connection between penguin guano and climate change mitigation. The study suggests that penguin guano may help reduce the effects of climate change on Antarctica by contributing to increased cloud formation.
Onion-like nanoparticles found in aircraft exhaust
Researchers found four types of aircraft engine exhaust particles, including soot, volatile particles, and onion-like structures. The onion-like particles are composed of organic compounds and have unique internal structures that may affect their volatility and interaction with the human respiratory tract.
Aerosol researcher receives prestigious Copernicus Medal
Yafang Cheng's research on atmospheric aerosols has brought fundamental insights and impactful public outreach, addressing grand challenges of global change. The Copernicus Gesellschaft e.V. recognizes her innovative work, promoting international collaboration in the geosciences.
Delhi air pollution worse than expected as water vapour skews figures
New Delhi's air pollution is more severe than previously estimated, with particles absorbing atmospheric water vapor leading to significant underestimation of particulate matter levels. The study highlights the importance of considering hygroscopic growth and its impact on air quality assessments.
Are our refrigerants safe? The lingering questions about the chemicals keeping us cool
A team of scientists has discovered that some key hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) decompose into persistent greenhouse gas pollutants, including compounds banned internationally. The chemicals are used as refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and in foamed plastics.
A special collection to highlight recent advances in air pollution complex research in China
The National Natural Science Foundation of China funded 76 projects to study air pollution complex, achieving significant advances. Research focuses on instrument development, modeling studies, and understanding the impact of heterogeneous processes on haze chemistry.
Long-term decline in downward surface solar radiation
A recent study reveals a significant long-term decline in downward surface solar radiation globally, with significant decadal variations observed over land. The research highlights the role of water vapor in DSSR changes, which was previously overlooked, and shows that future DSSR changes will depend heavily on emission scenarios.
Models show intensifying wildfires in a warming world due to changes in vegetation and humidity; only a minor role for lightning
A new study reveals that climate change is driving intensifying wildfires by altering vegetation and humidity levels, but not significantly impacting lightning strikes. The simulations predict a 14% increase in global area burned by fires annually with every degree of global warming.
More transparency about So Cal’s fire-polluted air
The ASCENT project provides real-time advanced air pollutant measurements, including PM2.5 aerosols and chemical components, to help increase public safety amidst the LA fires. The network measures chemicals emitted by burning structures and household materials, such as lead and chlorine, which can have toxic or carcinogenic effects.
Stop burning the biomass to protect your lungs
A recent study found that biomass burning products are toxic to human lung cells, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. The research emphasizes the need for extended air quality networks across the European Union to monitor key biomass burning markers.
Aerosol pollutants from cooking may last longer in the atmosphere – new study
Researchers found that particles can absorb substantially more water than previously thought, potentially extending their time in the atmosphere. This changes how long particles remain suspended in the air and affects strategies for controlling air pollution.
The Amazon rainforest as a cloud machine: How thunderstorms and plant transpiration produce condensation nuclei
The Amazon rainforest is a significant source of condensation nuclei for clouds, according to two studies. The rainforest's plant transpiration and thunderstorms produce aerosol particles that can be transported thousands of kilometers, influencing marine cloud formation.
Rainforest emissions linked with new particle formation at high altitudes
A recent study published in Nature found that isoprene, a naturally occurring organic compound emitted by vegetation, significantly contributes to the formation of new particles in the upper troposphere. Isoprene oxygenated organic molecules can rapidly form new particles under certain conditions.
Oceans emit sulfur and cool the climate more than previously thought
A recent study reveals that oceans produce a previously unknown sulfur gas called methanethiol, which cools the climate by increasing aerosol formation and reflecting solar radiation. This new compound is found to have a greater cooling capacity than dimethyl sulphide and its impact on climate models.
Nanoparticle bursts over the Amazon rainforest
A research team found that rainfall in the Amazon rainforest creates temporary bursts of nanoparticles that can grow into cloud condensation nuclei, essential for water vapor to condense and form clouds. This new understanding challenges previous theories on aerosol particles and their role in precipitation formation.
Climate change, drought, dust, and plankton blooms
A study links droughts in Southern Africa to a massive plankton bloom off Madagascar's southeast coast. Climate warming intensified the dust particles carried by wind, which acted as fertilizer in seawater, creating ideal conditions for phytoplankton growth.
Unlocking oceanic mysteries: satellites shed light on aerosol layer height
A recent study reveals that NASA's PACE satellite can accurately measure aerosol layer height over ocean surfaces. The use of oxygen A and B bands provides valuable data for refining aerosol monitoring, improving atmospheric corrections and enhancing our understanding of aerosol behavior.
Understanding the impact of human activity on air quality: A look at aerosol pollution before and after the industrial revolution
A recent study found that human-made secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) contribute up to 53% of total SOA levels today, a significant increase from preindustrial times. This dramatic change is crucial to understanding the environmental impact of human activities on air quality and climate change.
Scientists find new way global air churn makes particles
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have found a new mechanism that produces a significant amount of particles in the Earth's atmosphere, which could impact climate change and weather patterns. The discovery suggests that stratospheric air intrusions play a crucial role in forming these particles.
Climate change: Reduced sulphur content in shipping fuel associated with increased maritime atmospheric warming
A modelling study found substantial reductions in atmospheric aerosols and cloud droplet number density after the IMO 2020 regulation reduced sulphur content in shipping fuel. This led to an estimated 80% increase in Earth's heat energy retained, equivalent to a significant radiative warming effect.
Shedding light on the chemical enigma of sulfur trioxide in the atmosphere
The study reveals sulfur trioxide can form acid sulfuric anhydride products with organic and inorganic acids, contributing to atmospheric new particle formation. These findings improve aerosol formation prediction models, aiding in managing air pollution and mitigating climate change impacts.
High-resolution lidar sees birth zone of cloud droplets
Researchers developed a high-resolution lidar technique that can measure cloud droplet number concentrations remotely. The device provides unprecedented fine-scale structure at the base of clouds, enabling scientists to gain insight into aerosol-cloud interactions and their impact on climate.
Modeling broader effects of wildfires in Siberia
A study modeling Siberian wildfires' effects found significant impacts on air quality, climate, health, and economies in East Asia. The research suggests a cooling effect globally and worsened air quality in downwind regions.
Asian aerosols’ impact on Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
Scientists find that increased Asian aerosol emissions slow the AMOC's movements, reducing solar heating and cooling the Earth's climate. Reducing these emissions can help stabilize the AMOC, according to a study published in Nature Communications.
Improved air quality could enhance natural carbon sequestration by plants
Plants capture more carbon on weekends when industrial production decreases and fewer people commute, finding similar patterns during COVID-19 lockdowns. This improvement in air quality could enhance natural carbon sequestration and mitigate climate change.
New ‘whipping jet’ sprayer controls how aerosols move
A new 'whipping jet' aerosol sprayer can precisely control how aerosols move, a crucial aspect of various industries. The technology has potential applications in pharmaceutical sciences, climate research, automotive, food processing, and carbon capture.
New way to boost simulation of atmospheric aerosol nucleation
Researchers developed a general workflow to simulate atmospheric aerosol nucleation using the full ab initio method. They used active learning techniques and deep network-based force fields to attain comprehensive data sets and better understand the mechanisms of aerosol nucleation.
Cracking the chemical code on how iodine helps form clouds
A new study has resolved the first molecular steps of particle formation from iodine emissions, a crucial process in atmospheric secondary particles. The research team found that iodine plays a significant role in forming clouds, providing a key piece in understanding the changing atmosphere.
Large parts of Europe are warming twice as fast as the planet on average
A new study reveals that large parts of Europe are experiencing faster-than-average warming during summer months, leading to worse heatwaves and an increased risk of fires. The climate across the continent has also become drier, particularly in southern Europe.
Atmospheric aerosol concentrations are decreasing, but ground measurements and climate models still differ
A study found atmospheric aerosol concentrations decreasing in Europe since 2000, but ground measurements and climate models show differing trends. The greatest differences were found in particle size, which affects cloud formation.
New study sheds light on the effect of rain and clouds on atmospheric aerosols
A new study shows that precipitation events decrease atmospheric aerosol concentrations, particularly sulphate, in boreal forest environments. The researchers found significant formation of sulphate mass in non-precipitating clouds, which can improve the accuracy of climate models estimating aerosol transport.
Ice shards in Antarctic clouds let more solar energy reach Earth’s surface
Research by University of Washington reveals that ice shards in Southern Ocean clouds increase the amount of sunlight absorbed by the ocean's surface. The study found a significant impact on temperature, with differences of 10 Watts per square meter between models including and excluding ice formation.
Plastic snowfall in the Alps
Researchers detected 43 trillion miniature plastic particles in Switzerland every year, with estimates suggesting up to 3,000 tonnes of nanoplastics covering the country annually. The study reveals that nanoplastics originate primarily from urban areas and global emissions, posing potential health risks when inhaled.
It’s not just SARS-CoV-2: Most respiratory viruses spread by aerosols
A comprehensive review finds that many respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and measles, can spread through airborne transmission via aerosols. The study's findings suggest that indoor air quality and ventilation play a crucial role in reducing the transmission of infectious virus-laden aerosols.
Aerosols and cloud lifetime
Research using satellite observations and air mass trajectory modeling reveals that aerosols can extend cloud lifetime and brightness in the stratus-to-cumulus transition zone. This can lead to reduced planetary warming by reflecting more solar radiation back into space.
From Jungfraujoch Station: How new atmospheric aerosols form
Researchers at a high-altitude research station in Switzerland used state-of-the-art instruments to study new particle formation and its role as cloud condensation nuclei. They found that highly oxygenated organic compounds contribute to nucleation for a short window after vertical transport from the planetary boundary layer.
Dust from the Sahara Desert cools the Iberian Peninsula
Researchers from Spain and Portugal analyzed desert aerosols' radiative effect on the Earth's surface, finding that Sahara Desert dust caused cooling in August 2012. The team also discovered that anthropogenic pollution exacerbated this effect, leading to greater radiative cooling in both Évora and Badajoz.
Formation of nanoparticles can now be studied molecule-by-molecule
Researchers have developed a method to measure nanoparticles as small as 1 nm in diameter using the Particle Size Magnifier (PSM) instrument. The study reveals that sulphuric acid, amines, and oxygenated organics are necessary for nanoparticle growth.
Mechanism of aerosol aging identified
Researchers discovered that OH radicals significantly influence organic aerosols' mass and composition, leading to changes in concentration and characteristics. This finding necessitates updates to regional and global climate models.
A research work will be the reference to characterize the climatic impact of desert dust
A Spanish research team characterized the climatic impact of desert dust using a new Lidar technique. The scientists, led by Professor Lucas Alados Arboledas and Juan Luis Guerrero Rascado, found that atmospheric aerosol influences Earth's radioactive balance, potentially leading to warming or cooling.
Modeling Atmospheric Aerosols
Scientists from around the world collaborated to develop improved atmospheric aerosol models for predicting infrared propagation in coastal environments. The project aims to enhance sensor accuracy for detecting incoming threats such as missiles and submarine periscopes.