In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere?

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  1. Creating the artificial rains in some regions
  2. Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones
  3. Reducing the adverse effects of solar winds on the Earth
  4. Reducing the global warming

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Reducing the global warming
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The correct answer is option 4.

Key Points

  • Cirrus Cloud Thinning and Sulphate Aerosol Injection: These are geoengineering techniques proposed to mitigate the effects of global warming. Scientists suggest that thinning cirrus clouds, which trap heat, and injecting sulphate aerosols into the stratosphere to reflect sunlight, could reduce the warming of the Earth's atmosphere. 

  • Cirrus Cloud Thinning: The idea is to reduce the thickness or formation of high-altitude cirrus clouds, which trap longwave radiation emitted by the Earth. By thinning them, more heat can escape into space, potentially cooling the planet.

  • Sulphate Aerosol Injection: This technique involves spraying tiny reflective particles, like sulphate aerosols, into the stratosphere to reflect a portion of incoming solar radiation back into space, mimicking the cooling effect of large volcanic eruptions.

Additional Information

  • Geoengineering: These techniques fall under the category of geoengineering, specifically solar radiation management (SRM), which aims to reflect a fraction of sunlight to cool the Earth.

  • Global Warming Mitigation: These proposals are considered experimental and controversial due to potential unintended consequences on global weather patterns and ecosystems. However, they are suggested as temporary measures to slow down global warming while efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions continue.

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