Global Radiative Equilibrium

19 January 2011

Balance of Energy Input and Output

Energy Input Energy OutputEnergy Transport

Climate Response

Graedel and Crutzen, Atmospheric Change, p. 40, 1993

Graedel and Crutzen, Atmospheric Change, p. 46, 1993

Climate Forcing Factors

• Can be global to local in extent• Operate over different time scales• Are understood to varying levels of confidence• Can affect Energy Input, Transfer, or Output

Input, Transfer, or Output?Factor Way it Affects

ClimateSolar VariabilityOrbital VariationsVolcanic EruptionsEarth’s AlbedoEarth’s Oceanic CirculationEarth’s Sea-surface TemperaturesHumans modifying the landscapeHumans burning fossil fuels

Input

InputInputInput, OutputTransferTransferInput, OutputInput, Output