Christian Science Monitor: Soot nags at climate scientists like a child demanding a parent’s attention. While soot has played a minor role compared with the rock stars of climate change – carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases – that perspective is changing. Recent research suggests that black carbon soot must be reckoned with. Soot particles affect cloud formation and precipitation. Because it absorbs sunlight, soot can cool the surface while warming air aloft. The balance between such warming and cooling …