Solar variability, dimethyl sulphide, clouds, and climate

Abstract

It is proposed that Earth's climate may be modulated, in part, by changes in the flux of ultraviolet/blue light into the oceans. This occurs, at a range of timescales, through solar variability and from damage to the ozone layer. A conceptual model is presented where, through a number of synergistic processes and positive feedbacks, changes in the ultraviolet/blue flux alter the dimethyl sulphide flux to the atmosphere, and in turn the number of cloud condensation nuclei, cloud albedo, and thus sea surface temperature. The greatest effects are expected in the oligotrophic subtropical oceans, under the Hadley circulation, in summer.