EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Knollenberg et al. 1980
Knollenberg, R., Travis, L., Tomasko, M., Smith, P., Ragent, B., Esposito, L., McCleese, D., Martonchik, J. and Beer, R. (1980). The clouds of Venus: A synthesis report. Journal of Geophysical Research 85: doi: 10.1029/JA080i013p08059. issn: 0148-0227.

The results presented represent a synthesis of data from those Pioneer Venus experiments directed toward studying cloud problems. These orbiter and multiprobe experiments show the cloud system to consist of three altitude regions populated by cloud particles and smaller haze particles which extend above and below as well as coexist with the cloud particles. The optical properties derived are only consistent with the largest particles, having platelike morphology. The smallest particles are shown to require changes in chemical composition to explain observed behavior. The medium-sized H2SO droplets of 2 &mgr;m diameter appear to be the least volatile and are the best understood. The role of the cloud particles in precipitation dynamical processes, lightning, and radiation are all discussed.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit