Discuss the role of black carbon in climate forcing and its dual impact on the atmosphere and cryosphere.

Black carbon (BC) is a potent climate forcer that absorbs sunlight and heats the atmosphere. It contributes to global warming by reducing the albedo (reflectivity) of snow and ice when deposited on the cryosphere, accelerating melting. BC also influences cloud formation and regional climate patterns. Its dual impact complicates climate modeling because it involves both direct radiative effects and indirect effects through interactions with clouds and ice. Reducing BC emissions is critical for mitigating its adverse impacts on both the atmosphere and cryosphere.