Abstract:
The influence of the chemical composition of the atmosphere on the greenhouse effect and climate is analysed, and the major role of the biosphere in regulating this composition is discussed. Evidence of the observed variation trends of concentrations of small admixtures of optically active atmospheric components is presented, and the attendant possible changes in climate are outlined. A brief characterisation of the main properties of the atmospheric aerosol is given, and its role in shaping climate assessed. The bibliography includes 26 references.