C02 and climate: a missing feedback? (original) (raw)

Nature volume 341, pages 132–134 (1989)Cite this article

Abstract

THE potential of changes in cloud properties to modulate climate perturbations is well known1,2. Changes in cloud amount and cloud height3, cloud radiative properties4–6 and cloud condensation nuclei7 (CCN) have all been recognized as possible sources of climate feedbacks. Here we report results of simulations that indicate that the changes of state of cloud water may provide a substantial negative feedback on climate. The feedback is concen-trated in mid-latitudes and affects both the magnitude and distribu-tion of the climate change expected from increases in 'greenhouse' gases. Improved measurements and parameterizations of cloud processes are needed to quantify this process.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Meteorological Office, London Road, Bracknell, RG12 2SZ, UK
    J. F. B. Mitchell, C. A. Senior & W. J. Ingram

Authors

  1. J. F. B. Mitchell
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  2. C. A. Senior
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  3. W. J. Ingram
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Mitchell, J., Senior, C. & Ingram, W. C02 and climate: a missing feedback?.Nature 341, 132–134 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1038/341132a0

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