Glossary
The English version of our glossary is currently under construction and will be regularly updated.
Soot
Soot particles are chiefly formed during the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass.
Soot particles are chiefly formed during the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass. When wood, petroleum products or other organic material is burned, soot particles are released into the atmosphere. These anthropogenic soot particles mainly consist of carbon and, after carbon dioxide, are considered to be the second most important factor after climate warming: In the atmosphere or as a layer atop snow and ice, they absorb shortwave solar radiation, which accelerates climate warming.
In the atmosphere, soot particles can also indirectly affect the climate by changing the formation and development of clouds, and by influencing the properties of clouds. You can find additional information here.