Can we “freeze” the clouds?

The way the clouds freeze is can we “freeze” clouds? an important element in the puzzle of the latest climate models. Similarly,

Can clouds freeze because of dust particles? – Can we "freeze" clouds?

A new study by ETH Zurich shows that natural dust particles from distant deserts can cause clouds frost in the. Consequently, northern hemisphere. For example, This mechanism influences the quantity of solar light reflected by a cloud. Similarly, the way it can produce rain and snowwith major implications for global climate forecasts. However,

Tiny particles are raised by the wind. In addition, transported in the upper atmospherewhich can then cause freezing the clouds of clouds. In addition,

An important discovery for northern countries – Can we "freeze" clouds?

This process is particularly important in northern regions. However, where clouds often form at temperatures can we “freeze” clouds? just below zero.

“We found that the clouds containing more dust are much more likely to freeze at their top. This has a direct impact on the quantity of solar light reflected towards space. on the amount of precipitation that is formed, ”explains Diego Villanueva, postdoctoral researcher in atmospheric physics at ETH Zurich and the main author of the study.

Dust transforms the clouds into ice

The research team has focused on the clouds in the mixed phase. which contain both water and ice and ice are formed between −39 ° C and 0 ° C.

These clouds are common in the regions of average. high latitude and are known to be extremely sensitive to changes in their environment.

The researchers discovered a remarkable scheme: the more dust there is, the colder the clouds, the more the ice clouds appear frequently.

The results agree with those of the laboratory

Moreover. This model almost perfectly corresponded to the predictions of laboratory experiences On the way dust triggers the freezing of the droplets.

“This is one of the first studies showing that satellite measures of the composition of clouds agree with our laboratory work results. ” said Ulrike Lohmann, professor of atmospheric physics at ETH Zurich.

The research team highlights the need to conduct more in -depth studies in order to better understand how other factors. such as The strength of the ascending currents or humidity, influence the frost of the clouds. For the moment. one thing is clear: tiny particles of dust help shape the can we “freeze” clouds? clouds above our heads and, therefore, in the future of our climate.

References of the news:

D. Villanueva (2025). The freezing of the droplets driven by dust explains the top of the clouds in the northern extropical regions.

ETH Zürich. (2025). Do you want to freeze a cloud? Desert dust could help you!