New Evidence: Bacteria Causes Rain

[wolram]

http://medheadlines.com/2008/03/01/new-evidence-germs-cause-rain/

Scientists have long known that a particle of some sort, often dust or soot, is needed to form an ice crystal in the atmosphere. Moisture in the atmosphere clings to the tiny ice crystal and freezes, too. The ice crystal gets bigger and bigger until it falls to the ground as snow and rain.

Christner’s research has disclosed that bacteria that lives on plants can also get swept high into the air, where moisture clings to it, forming an ice crystal that grows until it, too, falls as rain or snow. He and his colleagues have identified the rain-generating bacteria on every continent around the globe.

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Very interesting! Thanks for the story!

 

[quicknote]

While this new evidence may seem surprising, it is not entirely unexpected. Bacteria have been found to play a role in many natural processes, such as nutrient cycling and decomposition. The idea that they could also contribute to the formation of rain is a fascinating discovery.

However, it is important to note that bacteria alone cannot cause rain. As stated in the article, a particle such as dust or soot is still needed to initiate the formation of ice crystals. The bacteria simply act as a catalyst in this process.

Further research is needed to fully understand the extent of bacteria's role in rain formation and how it may be impacted by human activities such as pollution. This discovery also raises questions about the potential impacts of climate change on bacterial populations and their ability to contribute to rain formation.

Overall, this is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex systems that govern our planet's weather and serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living organisms.