The chemical most commonly used for cloud seeding or artificial rainmaking is silver iodide (AgI). Silver iodide's molecular structure is similar to that of ice, allowing it to facilitate freezing and condensation. When introduced into clouds, silver iodide acts as condensation nuclei allowing water vapor to condense into droplets and form precipitation. Silver iodide particles can be delivered into clouds via aircrafts or rocket dispersal systems. The concentration of silver iodide needed for effective cloud seeding is extremely small - usually tens of grams per cubic kilometer of air. Silver iodide is an effective cloud seeding agent as it is non-toxic, inexpensive and provides results within 30-60 minutes after dispersal into suitable clouds. Countries like China, India, Australia and USA have utilized silver iodide extensively for precipitation enhancement projects through cloud seeding.
This Question is Also Available in:
हिन्दी