qClouds affect both solar radiation
and terrestrial (longwave) radiation.
qTypically, clouds increase albedo è
a cooling effect (negative feedback)
q clouds reduce outgoing longwave
radiation è a heating effect (positive
feedback)
qThe net effect of clouds on climate
depends cloud types and their optical properties, the
insolation, and the characteristics of the underlying surface.
qIn general, high clouds tend to
produce a heating (positive) feedback. Low clouds tend
to produce a cooling (negative) feedback.