April 16, 2024

Mahoney Pens Commentary on Climate Change and Nuclear Fusion

Professor Emeritus Bernard L. Mahoney, Jr. and Marilyn Shull Black ’69

Professor Emeritus Bernard L. Mahoney, Jr. and Marilyn Shull Black ’69

UMW Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Chemistry Bernard Mahoney penned a commentary on climate change and nuclear fusion that appeared in The Free Lance-Star.

One of the most compelling issues today is the long-term effect of climate change on the planet. As an atmospheric photochemist for over 50 years, I am deeply concerned about the stance of our government on this issue.

In addition, numerous letters to the editor in The Free Lance-Star have questioned the validity of climate change. The letter writers have been uninformed, in my opinion.

The molecular structure of carbon dioxide has the unique ability to absorb infrared radiation emanating from the Earth’s surface and re-emit the same radiation back to Earth. The result of this process is the gradual heating of the Earth’s surface, resulting in the “Greenhouse Effect.” Read more.