How Bacteria Make It Rain (Video)

 The surprising relationship between ocean spray, bacteria, and the weather

Written byAmerican Chemical Society
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The oceans are covered with a thin film of organic matter and bacteria, many of which launch out of the water and go airborne. But these little particles do more than just take flight—these microbes can actually make it rain. In the final stop of our Speaking of Chemistry Road Trip, we visit San Diego, California, where Kimberly Prather is researching the surprising relationship between ocean spray, bacteria, and the weather. 

Speaking of Chemistry is a production of Chemical & Engineering News, a weekly magazine of the American Chemical Society. It's the series that keeps you up to date with the important and fascinating chemistry shaping the world around you. 

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