How do cloud type and altitude influence climate feedbacks?

How do cloud type and altitude influence climate feedbacks?

• A. High cirrus clouds trap infrared radiation warming
• B. Low thick clouds reflect sunlight cooling
• C. Cloud type and altitude determine the sign and magnitude of feedback
• D. All clouds have no effect

Answer: (C)

Clouds affect climate feedback through two competing radiative roles: reflecting sunlight (cooling) and trapping heat (warming). The balance between these depends on the cloud’s type and altitude. High cirrus clouds are thin and let most solar radiation through, but they trap infrared radiation, giving a warming influence that can grow with warming. Low, thick clouds reflect a lot of sunlight, which cools the surface and acts as a negative feedback, though they can also trap some heat near the surface. Because different cloud types respond differently to changing climate and have distinct radiative properties, the overall cloud feedback can be positive or negative and varies in magnitude. That’s why cloud type and altitude determine the sign and magnitude of feedback.

Clouds affect climate feedback through two competing radiative roles: reflecting sunlight (cooling) and trapping heat (warming). The balance between these depends on the cloud’s type and altitude. High cirrus clouds are thin and let most solar radiation through, but they trap infrared radiation, giving a warming influence that can grow with warming. Low, thick clouds reflect a lot of sunlight, which cools the surface and acts as a negative feedback, though they can also trap some heat near the surface. Because different cloud types respond differently to changing climate and have distinct radiative properties, the overall cloud feedback can be positive or negative and varies in magnitude. That’s why cloud type and altitude determine the sign and magnitude of feedback.