Environmental

Recent Posts

Planes can trigger small localized snowstorms
Posted on 25 Jul 2010 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

There has been a debate over the years re whether aircraft flying through clouds can trigger changes in the local weather. Researchers have now identified the circumstances when such may happen. Water typically freezes at 32ºF or 0ºC. But... Read More

Arctic salt clouds are reducting the impact of Global Climate Change on the Arctic region
Posted on 15 May 2011 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

Prior posts have noted both the various impacts of Global Climate Change ("GCC") on various aspects of the Earth and its atmospheric systems, as well as the failure of many/most models to include such impacts within their parameters. For example... Read More

Global Warming: There are Reasonable, Cost-Effective Steps that Can Slow the Temperature Rise, but They May Be Rendered Moot by Massive Increases in CO2
Posted on 4 Mar 2012 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

First, some good news. Prior posts have noted repeatedly the key role that methane plays in global warming (the longterm trend in temperature, not seasonal or annual variations). Prior posts have also noted the role that particulates-aerosols play in... Read More

In a smallish room, body heat draws particles near, enhancing inhalation
Posted on 23 Jun 2010 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

Most models involving inhalation of particulates of various sorts (e.g., microbes, pollen, dust, toxins) assume a somewhat even distribution of the particulates in the air that is inhaled. While such an assumption helps to simplify exposure calculations... Read More

The trend toward use of heavier crudes increases the carbon footprint of petroleum products
Posted on 6 Dec 2010 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

Heavier crudes are, by definition, more viscous. The also contain greater amounts of sulfur, which must be removed because of the adverse impact of sulfur on various catalysts used in the refining process. The sulfur content of fuel is also controlled... Read More

What is third-hand tobacco smoke and is it dangerous?
Posted on 26 Feb 2011 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

In general terms, the phrase "third-hand tobacco smoke" ("THS") refers to the tobacco particulates and gas that get on clothes, in hair, etc. You have smelled it when you approach a smoker, even if they are smoking at that time. Technically... Read More

Aerosols reactions can impact global warming assessment, yet they are often not a significant factor in models
Posted on 10 Mar 2010 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

Some so-called greenhouse gases trap heat and boost the planet's surface temperature, which keeps the Earth habitable. Past climatic events have shown that temperatures can move into ranges that would be harmful to current biota, including humans... Read More

Smoke from fires can travel thousands of miles impacting weather, climate, and air quality
Posted on 4 Apr 2011 by Thomas H. Clarke, Jr.

Prior posts have noted the impact of fires in Southeast Asia on air pollution throughout the region. While it has been known for decades that large wildfires can create or enhance thunderstorm clouds, leading to what are called pyrocumulonimbus clouds... Read More