Cloud seeding can be referred to as a weather modification process that helps in producing or inducing precipitation (rain or snow). This technique is more commonly used to induce artificial rain. This process involves the dispersal of chemicals (such as silver iodide, etc.) over the clouds that act as stimulants for precipitation to occur. What happens is, these particles act as nuclei for condensation of water droplets or as nuclei for crystallization of snow particles, depending upon the temperature conditions within the clouds.
This technique makes use of chemicals such as silver iodide, potassium iodide, etc., whose long-term effects are still being assessed. That is, how far these chemicals are safe and may not pose a threat to the health of plants, animals, even humans, and the environment is not yet known.
Grade 11 • India