How do volcanic eruptions affect climate?

Volcanic eruptions can significantly impact climate on a global scale, primarily through the release of ash and gases such as sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. When these particles and gases are expelled during an eruption, they can form sulfate aerosols in the stratosphere. These aerosols reflect sunlight away from the Earth, leading to a temporary cooling effect on the planet. This phenomenon can last for months to years, depending on the amount of material released and the height it reaches in the atmosphere.

The cooling effects from volcanic eruptions are a well-documented occurrence, such as the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991, which resulted in a measurable drop in global temperatures. In contrast to the options regarding local weather or claiming no impact at all, the significant global ramifications of eruptions through aerosol formation highlight their importance in climate studies. Additionally, while some eruptions can release greenhouse gases, the immediate cooling effect due to ash and aerosols often takes precedence, demonstrating that volcanic activity can influence climate in complex ways.