2-3: Climate Model Results - Equilibrium Simulations

Importance of this Unit to the Course

As discussed in previous units, the amount of carbon dioxide will double the pre-industrial revolution level before the end of this century and may reach 3 or 4 times that level. These different scenarios will create different climates that need to be described by the use of models so that we have the best available information on what adaptation strategies will be needed and what national and global policies might be necessary to protect sensitive components of the climate system.

Objectives

To understand the difference between equilibrium simulations and transient simulations of climate.
To determine how well models can simulate the present observed climate.

Preparation for Discussion (You must complete this section before class.)

Read the summary information. (Print text for offline review; images only.)

Take the Quiz

Review additional reading material (this material is not covered in the quiz, but offers more ideas for online discussion)

Modeling the Earth's Climate

Discussion (online / face-to-face) (See your portfolio for due dates and times)

A major component of the course is participation in the online dialog. The following types of comments are required:

Social Comments
Knowledge-building Comments
Ethical Comments

The following may be used as discussion starters for the online dialog:

Unit Problem to Ponder:

Sometimes climate models use 2xCO₂ (twice the pre-industrial level of atmospheric carbon dioxide), but occasionally 4xCO₂ is used? Why are these levels chosen?
Unit exam questions from previous years
Unit discussions from previous years, available from the current online discussion

Additional Reading