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News Release 15-150
Scientists discover that salty sea spray affects clouds
Aerosols have impact on cloud composition, duration
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Oceans send plumes of sea spray into the atmosphere, altering the formation and duration of clouds.
Credit: NOAA
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Ice nucleating particles from sea spray make their way into clouds, affecting clouds' longevity.
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Clouds cover 60 percent of Earth's surface at any given time.
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Clouds' ability to reflect solar energy and absorb radiation affect Earth's climate.
Credit: NOAA
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Earth's oceans and atmosphere are inextricably linked in how long clouds last.
Credit: NOAA
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Ice nucleating particles from oceans are distinct from those on land, scientists have found.
Credit: NOAA
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