2-4: Enhanced Greenhouse Climate, Transient Climate Simulations

Importance of this Unit to the Course

The equilibrium climate models described in the previous unit are somewhat simplified to give quick results of possible future climates. They overlook a key factor that the ocean, atmosphere and ice change at different rates when external heating of the climate system changes. Better evaluations of climate models and better projections of future climates can be done with transient models. Transient models give better estimates about when we can expect significant climate changes to occur.

Objectives

To understand how future increases in greenhouse gases will cause temperatures and precipitation patterns to change.
To understand the range and causes of uncertainty in climate models and how these relate to uncertainties in projections of economic growth.

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)

Interactive Java Climate Model

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:

Why are "climate surprises" even beyond the capabilities of transient models to simulate?
Unit exam questions from previous years
Unit discussions from previous years, available from the current online discussion

Additional Reading