Susan Solomon is a renowned atmospheric chemist and climate scientist who has made significant contributions to our understanding of the Earth’s atmosphere and the role that human activity plays in climate change. Born in 1956, Solomon received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later earned her PhD in chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley.
Throughout her career, Solomon has focused on studying the Earth’s atmosphere and the ways in which it is affected by human activity. She has conducted research on a wide range of topics, including the depletion of the ozone layer, the role of greenhouse gases in climate change, and the impacts of air pollution on human health.
One of Solomon’s most significant achievements was her role in discovering the cause of the Antarctic ozone hole. In the 1980s, she led a team of scientists on an expedition to Antarctica to study the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. They discovered that the ozone hole was caused by the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) into the atmosphere, which were primarily used in refrigerants and other products. Solomon’s work helped to build the scientific case for the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty that regulated the use of CFCs and other ozone-depleting substances.
In addition to her research, Solomon has also been an influential voice in the public debate on climate change. She has testified before Congress and served as a member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for its efforts to combat climate change. Solomon has also received numerous awards and honors for her work, including the National Medal of Science, the highest scientific honor in the United States.
Solomon’s contributions to the field of atmospheric chemistry and climate science have had a profound impact on our understanding of the Earth’s atmosphere and the role that human activity plays in shaping it. Her dedication to scientific research and public outreach have helped to raise awareness about the importance of addressing climate change and protecting the planet for future generations.