Published February 1979 | Version v1
Journal article

On the effects of a sudden change in the albedo of the earth

  • 1. Oxford Univ. (UK). Dept. of Geology and Mineralogy
  • 2. University Coll., Cardiff (UK)

Description

Acquisition by the upper atmosphere of some 1014 gm of cometary dust would have major implications on the Earth's climate. Pluvial activity would increase dramatically as temperature differences between sea and land widened. Global distribution of precipitation would be controlled by the density of the dust in the atmosphere; for a partially reflective blanket, a fraction of solar energy would still reach ground level creating new climate zones. The totally undecomposed state of the interiors of Siberian Mammoths and the curious distribution, often uphill, of erratic boulders point to unbelievably sudden and severe conditions at the onset and possibly end of a glacial period. It is suggested that a reflective blanket of particles could produce such conditions. (Auth.)

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Astrophys. Space Sci.
Journal Volume
60
Journal Issue
2
Series
Astrophys. Space Sci.
Journal Page Range
505-511
ISSN
0004-640X

INIS