Cosmic rays and climate forcing .
Abstract
An important factor affecting the terrestrial environment is the flux of cosmic rays permanently impinging on Earth. Energetic cosmic rays initiate a nucleonic-electromagnetic cascade in the atmosphere, affecting its physical-chemical properties. In particular, cosmic rays form the dominant source of ionization in the lower and middle atmosphere. Therefore, a detailed knowledge of processes leading to the cosmic ray induced ionization makes a solid basis for a quantitative study of the outer space influence upon Earth. Via the variable heliospheric modulation of cosmic rays, this provides an indirect solar-terrestrial link.
We present here a review of atmospheric effects of cosmic rays, including ionization and aerosol particle formation. Both physical modeling and phenomenological relations are considered on different time scales.- Publication:
-
Memorie della Societa Astronomica Italiana
- Pub Date:
- 2011
- Bibcode:
- 2011MmSAI..82..937U