Blocking Out the Sun to Fight Climate Change

David Keith, a Harvard physicist, is researching solar geoengineering, a method to cool the Earth by spraying reflective particles into the atmosphere. While it could quickly reduce global temperatures, the technology is controversial, especially in the US, due to concerns about its impact on emission reduction efforts. Keith's lab simulates stratospheric conditions to test materials like diamond dust. Despite its potential, geoengineering is not a permanent solution and poses unknown risks. It may be a necessary temporary measure if emission cuts fail to curb climate change effectively.

What is the primary goal of solar geoengineering as researched by David Keith?

• To promote fossil fuel usage

• To enhance greenhouse gas emissions

• To reflect sunlight back into space

• To increase global temperatures

Why is solar geoengineering research controversial in the United States?

• It is believed to increase emissions

• It is seen as a distraction from reducing emissions

• It is too expensive to implement

• It has no potential benefits

What is the purpose of the glass tube simulation in Keith's lab?

• To simulate the stratosphere's conditions

• To measure ocean temperatures

• To test new fossil fuels

• To create a miniature greenhouse effect

What is a major concern about deliberately manipulating the climate?

• It will immediately solve climate change

• It will reduce the need for renewable energy

• It might have unknown negative consequences

• It could lead to increased biodiversity

How is solar geoengineering described in terms of its effectiveness?

• A temporary fix addressing symptoms

• An enhancement of natural processes

• A method to increase carbon emissions

• A permanent solution to climate change