Solar radiation is the total spectrum of electromagnetic energy given off by the sun and is responsible for heating and illuminating Earth. It is visible as sunshine and is necessary for life on Earth. Its effects, however, are a double edged sword.When Earth is struck with solar radiation it maintains an energy balance by radiating the energy back to space. However, due to increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, this energy radiated back to space is reabsorbed and re-emitted back to Earth increasing its temperature.
Greenhouse Gases
A greenhouse gas is a gas that absorbs and emits radiation. Earth's primary greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, water vapor, ozone, nitrous oxide, and methane.
Stratospheric Aerosols
This material is the basis behind the idea of solar radiation management. Sulfur and water are the 2 materials of interest as potential aerosols to be injected in to the upper atmosphere and stratosphere.