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UPSC CSE 2025 · PYQ · Weather Modification / Cloud Seeding · medium

Which of the following are used in cloud seeding for artificial rainfall to reduce air pollution?

  1. A.Silver iodide and Potassium iodide✓ Correct
  2. B.Silver nitrate and Potassium iodide
  3. C.Silver iodide and Potassium nitrate
  4. D.Silver nitrate and Potassium chloride

Explanation

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique used to induce artificial rainfall. The most commonly used chemicals are silver iodide (AgI) and potassium iodide (KI), along with dry ice (solid CO₂). Silver iodide has a crystalline structure similar to that of ice, which makes it an excellent ice nucleus around which water droplets can condense and grow into raindrops. Potassium iodide serves a similar nucleation function. These substances are dispersed into clouds via aircraft or ground generators to enhance precipitation, which can help wash down particulate pollutants and reduce air pollution.
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