Radiative forcing: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Photos

Bar chart comparing global mean radiative forcings from various sources since 1750, including natural and anthropogenic factors such as greenhouse gases, aerosols, and land use, with color-coded bars showing positive and negative forcing values, uncertainty ranges, and scientific understanding levels.

See All Images →

Topics

Global warming Climate radiant energy Climate change Köppen climate classification climate of India urban climate Microclimate What’s the Difference Between Weather and Climate?Highland climate Continentality Tropical wet-dry climate Climatic map

Dig Deeper: More Articles That Discuss This Topic

Global warming: Radiative forcing

Combination shot of Grinnell Glacier taken from the summit of Mount Gould, Glacier National Park, Montana in the years 1938, 1981, 1998 and 2006.

Pop Quiz: 18 Things to Know About Global Warming