A model of climate forcing by anthropogenic sulfate aerosols | |
| Author | Chua, Eng How |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.EV-94-07 |
| Subject(s) | Climatic changes Aerosols |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources & Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | Although long considered to be of marginal importance to global climate change, tropospheric aerosol contributes substantially to radiative forcing, and anthropogenic sulfate aerosol in particular has imposed a major perturbation to this forcing. Both the direct scattering of shortwavelength solar radiation and the modification of the shortwave reflective properties of clouds by sulfate aerosol particles increase planetary albedo, thereby exerting a cooling influence on the planet. Current climate forcing due to anthropogenic sulfate is estimated to be -1 to -2 watt per square meter, globally averaged. This perturbation is comparable in magnitude to current anthropogenic greenhouse gas forcing but opposite in sigh. Thus the aerosol forcing has likely offset global greenhouse warming to a substantial degree. Aerosol effect must be taken into account in evaluating anthropogenic influences on past, current, and projected future climate and in formulating policy regarding controls on emission of greenhouse gases and sulfur dioxide. Resolution of such policy issues requires integrated research on the magnitude and geographical distribution of aerosol climate forcing and on the controlling chemical and physical processes. |
| Year | 1994 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Other Field of Studies (No Department) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Environmental Engineering and Management (EV) |
| Chairperson(s) | Su, Wei-Han |
| Examination Committee(s) | Stoll, -Ing. Uwe ;Yulu, Qi |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | German Academic Exchange Services (DAAD) |
| Degree | Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1994 |