Whose research first showed that clouds can cool Earth by reflecting sunlight?
Quick Answer
John Leslie and later scientists helped explain cloud reflectivity, but modern cloud-radiation studies are especially associated with scientists like Verner Suomi and others. The key idea is that clouds both trap heat and reflect sunlight, affecting climate.
The Full Story
The climate role of clouds was developed over time by many researchers, but modern cloud-radiation science grew through the 20th century, including the work of Verner Suomi and colleagues using satellites and radiation instruments. Clouds can cool the planet by reflecting incoming sunlight, especially bright low clouds, while also trapping outgoing infrared heat. This dual role makes clouds one of the biggest uncertainties in climate prediction. Understanding cloud feedbacks remains one of the most difficult parts of climate science.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why clouds can both cool and warm the planet"
Was this answer helpful?
Tap a reaction — it helps us pick what to cover next.