Previous Year Question
Which one of the following silver salts is used for producing artificial rains?
Silver nitrate
Silver bromide
Silver nitride
Silver iodide
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Solution
The technique of artificially increasing the possibility of rainfall is called Cloud Seeding. In this technique, particles that can assist condensation or ice-crystal formation are introduced into suitable clouds.
In cold or supercooled clouds, Silver Iodide (AgI) acts as an effective ice-nucleating agent and provides nuclei for the formation of ice crystals.
The growth of these ice crystals can assist the precipitation-forming process and, under favourable atmospheric conditions, may result in rain or other precipitation.
Cloud seeding does not itself create clouds; suitable pre-existing moisture-bearing clouds and necessary atmospheric conditions are required.
Therefore, among the given options, Silver Iodide is the silver salt used for producing artificial rain.