New study suggests dust could explain ocean temperature rise

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By Jeff Rucker jrucker@nbcaugusta.com

Story Published: Jul 21, 2009 at 12:58 AM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 21, 2009 at 12:58 AM EDT

AUGUSTA, Ga. - A new study published in Science Magazine suggests the amount of African dust and volcanic ash over the Atlantic Ocean could play a major role in determining ocean temperature. The study concludes that much of the observed rise in North Atlantic Ocean temperature during the past 30 years could be explained by less dust allowing more sunlight to reach the ocean.

Dust and other airborne particles (aerosols) such as volcanic ash can scatter incoming sunlight back into space. Less dust and volcanic ash in the atmosphere allows more sunlight to reach the ocean. 

The researchers used climate models and data from 1982 to 2007. They found that a decrease in African dust storms and volcanic eruptions in tropical areas of the globe during this time period can explain most of the observed temperature rise.

To read the full article from Science Magazine, click here.

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