Light-absorbing particles (Q765)
Subject, term, tag: Light-absorbing particles
| Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | Light-absorbing particles |
Subject, term, tag: Light-absorbing particles |
Statements
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026
Light-absorbing particles (LAP), for example, black carbon (BC), brown carbon and dust, are particles that absorb solar radiation and convert it into internal energy, thus raising the particle’s temperature and emitting thermal-infrared radiation that is selectively absorbed by the surrounding medium. LAP affect the energy balance of the atmosphere and clouds, and when deposited on snow and ice, they reduce snow/ice albedo, increasing heating and accelerating melting. These particles have a warming effect on climate. (English)
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026