Radiative Forcing
qRadiative
forcing is a measure of the influence a factor has in altering the
balance of incoming and outgoing energy in the Earth-atmosphere
system, and is an index of the importance of the factor as a
potential climate change mechanism. It is expressed in
Watts per square metre (Wm-2).
atmosphere
20 w/m2
15 w/m2
with aerosols
radiative forcing of the aerosols =
15-20 = -5 w/m2
surface