Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The Southern Ocean is known for having the cleanest air on Earth, a fact previously attributed mainly to minimal human activity.
- However, recent research has unveiled that clouds and rain play a significant role in keeping the air pristine.
Role of clouds:
- The Southern Ocean experiences unique cloud patterns, particularly honeycomb-shaped clouds, which regulate climate by reflecting or allowing sunlight.
- These clouds generate sporadic but intense rain showers, effectively washing aerosol particles out of the air.
About Southern Ocean:
The Southern Ocean is the body of water that surrounds Antarctica and is bounded by the continents of Antarctica, South America, Africa, and Australia.
It is the southernmost ocean on Earth and is characterized by its vast expanse of open water, strong currents, and harsh climate conditions.
The Southern Ocean plays a critical role in regulating global climate and ocean circulation patterns.
