Which one of the following is responsible for the negative forcing or cooling of the atmosphere?
AWater vapour
BTropospheric Ozone
CStratospheric Ozone ✓ Correct
DBlack carbon
Correct answer: (C) Stratospheric Ozone
Explanation
Stratospheric ozone changes are linked to a negative radiative forcing that cools the atmosphere.
Water vapour is a strong greenhouse gas producing positive, warming forcing.
Tropospheric ozone near the surface acts as a warming greenhouse gas.
Black carbon absorbs sunlight and warms the atmosphere, a positive forcing.
Depletion of stratospheric ozone has contributed a small cooling effect overall.
Radiative forcing measures how a factor pushes climate towards warming or cooling.
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