UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 30
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?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation:
Cirrus cloud thinning and stratospheric sulphate aerosol injection are studied as climate geoengineering proposals to alter Earth’s radiative balance and counter warming.
Option-wise Analysis:
A (Incorrect): Artificial rainmaking usually refers to cloud seeding rather than these radiative-forcing proposals.
B (Incorrect): They target climate radiative forcing, not primarily tropical-cyclone suppression.
C (Incorrect): Solar wind is charged-particle flow, unrelated to these atmospheric radiation schemes.
D (Correct): These methods have been proposed to reduce global warming.
Review Note:
These are unproven, high-risk interventions with significant side effects and governance challenges.