Uranus Atmosphere: Structure and Composition

The best available data on the geometric albedo of Uranus are shown to be compatible with a model in which particulate matter is present in the atmosphere. Cloud structures compatible with simple models for the accretion of Uranus and with thermal-balance studies of its atmosphere are discussed. A methane haze layer is suggested by the observations, and a deep, dense ammonia cloud layer far below the methane clouds is considered likely. Subject headings: spectra, planetary - atmospheres, planetary - Uranus