Discovering a new origin for cloud seeds, scientists have found that when the stratosphere meets the troposphere, a unique chemical mix forms a perfect environment for the creation of tiny particles that serve as the building blocks of clouds. Previous beliefs suggested that most particle formation occurred in the upper troposphere as clouds dissipated, leaving behind a clean slate for new particles to form. However, recent airborne observations indicate that stratospheric air intrusions are even more effective in generating particles due to the mixing of different chemical compositions in the two atmospheric layers. This process is catalyzed by sunlight and water, resulting in the creation of various particles, including sulfate particles that aid in cloud formation.
2024-07-30 12:00:00
Originally posted on www.sciencenews.org