A reading that describes the effects of black carbon on the atmosphere and the climate system. This reading by Carl Zimmer for the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies details the albedo effect of black carbon, how it affects cloud formation, and its warming and cooling effects of the Earth’s surface.

Students will learn that black carbon is potentially second only to carbon dioxide in its heat trapping power. They will also learn about how it affects the Earth’s climate system. Students will further understand the complexities of black carbon emissions and why only certain emissions cause an increase in Earth’s temperature.