Properties and Effects of Particles that Form Clouds

Both liquid and ice clouds in the atmosphere form on small aerosol particles, which are produced by various sources. The effects of aerosols on cloud properties are complex and one of the most uncertain factors in predicting climate change. Some aerosol sources and how they act as cloud condensation nuclei (for liquid clouds) and ice nuclei (for ice clouds higher in the atmosphere) will be presented. Much of the data presented will be from in-situ cloud measurements taken from atmospheric research aircraft in different parts of the world.