Tiny Particles Can Make Tropical Storm Clouds Stronger

Topic: Environment

Scientists studied aircraft data from tropical clouds and found that tiny particles can make them stronger. They discovered high levels of water vapor supersaturation in these clouds, which could be used by aerosol particles to form more droplets and increase condensation.

Tiny aerosol particles may be able to strengthen tropical convective clouds. Scientists have debated this idea for decades, but a new study has found evidence that it can happen. Aerosols influence the formation and growth of cloud droplets, which can affect condensation and the release of latent heat.

The researchers used data from aircraft measurements collected during NASA's Cloud, Aerosol and Monsoon Processes Philippines Experiment in 2019. They estimated quasi-steady-state supersaturation using measurements of updraft speeds and cloud droplet size distributions. Quasi-steady-state supersaturation is when the balance between water vapor produced as air rises and water vapor removed as it condenses onto droplets is at its highest.

The results indicate that tropical convective clouds can reach supersaturation levels far higher than those recorded in previous aircraft studies using comparable methods. The largest reliable values were found in strong updrafts with relatively low droplet concentrations.

Why It Matters

Understanding how to strengthen tropical storm clouds is important for predicting and preparing for severe weather events, which can affect millions of people in India each year.

Key Facts

• Scientists studied aircraft data from tropical clouds collected during NASA's Cloud, Aerosol and Monsoon Processes Philippines Experiment in 2019.
• The researchers found high levels of water vapor supersaturation in these clouds, which could be used by aerosol particles to form more droplets and increase condensation.
• The largest reliable values were found in strong updrafts with relatively low droplet concentrations.
• Quasi-steady-state supersaturation is when the balance between water vapor produced as air rises and water vapor removed as it condenses onto droplets is at its highest.
• Tropical convective clouds can reach supersaturation levels far higher than those recorded in previous aircraft studies using comparable methods.

Key Terms

Aerosol

Tiny particles suspended in the air, such as dust or pollutants.

Quasi-steady-state supersaturation

When the balance between water vapor produced as air rises and water vapor removed as it condenses onto droplets is at its highest.

Implications

Understanding how to strengthen tropical storm clouds is important for predicting and preparing for severe weather events, which can affect millions of people in India each year.