The Albedo Effect
Scientists believe that global warming will trigger new processes. Some will lead to further warming, and others will mitigate it. The impact of these positive and negative feedbacks is a major cause of uncertainty in climate predictions.
carbon-info.org
7) The Albedo effect
1) Exposed land is darker coloured and absorbs more energy.
As the ice melts, more land is exposed. This absorbs more heat, melting more ice.
2) Light coloured ice reflects back the Sun’s energy efficiently.
3) The altitude of the melting ice is reduced so it becomes harder for new ice to form.
Snow & Glacial Albedo effect - positive feedback
Sea Ice Albedo effect - positive feedback
1) Exposed water is darker coloured and absorbs more energy from the sun. The temperature of the ocean increases, leading to sea ice melting fast.
As more of the ocean becomes ice free, more sunlight is absorbed, leading to further temperature increases and further melting of the sea ice.
2) Light coloured sea ice reflects the sun’s energy.
3) The area covered by sea ice is reduced, which makes it harder for new sea ice to form. Forming of sea ice is an essential part of keeping the Gulf Stream circulating.
