The role of black carbon in Arctic climate

Abstract

Both the observed and predicted ecological effects of climate change are threatening the environmental systems that support life on Earth. Currently, black carbon (BC) is contributing more to global warming than previously thought, and is second only to carbon dioxide in its contribution to the changing climate. Black carbon affects Arctic climate through multiple mechanisms that should be examined such as radiation, cloud reflectivity and stability. Through regression analysis, this study suggests that black carbon explains approximately 30% of the variation in Arctic temperature by interfering with solar radiation which causes dimming and cooling at the surface.