Environmentalmedium · Past Paper

How do aerosols generally affect the Earth's energy balance?

AThey always warm the planet
BMost reflect sunlight and cool the planet
CThey have no effect
DThey only affect the ozone layer

✓ Correct Answer: BMost reflect sunlight and cool the planet

Most aerosols (like sulfates) reflect sunlight back into space, having a net cooling effect, though some like black carbon can cause warming.

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