Researchers at TU Wien discovered that feldspar dust plays a vital role in cloud formation.

The unique surface geometry of feldspar allows it to efficiently bind water molecules, serving as a nucleation seed for clouds.

The surface of feldspar is covered with hydroxyl groups that act as connection points for water molecules, leading to cloud formation.

The hydroxyl layer on feldspar is formed when water vapor attaches to its freshly split surface.

These findings provide valuable insights into cloud formation physics and implications for understanding climate change.