A question about the parameters/constants entering climate models

In summary, the conversation discusses the need for a resource that lists and describes the constants and parameters used in modern climate models, as well as their associated uncertainties. The book "The Physics of Climate Change" by Lawrence Krauss is recommended as a starting point, but other sources such as the EU, USA, and NASA also provide information on climate change parameters. The conversation also mentions the wide range of models used in climate modeling and recommends starting with older references for a simpler and more explicit understanding.
  • #1
nrqed
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Can someone point out to a resource where would be provided a list and description of the constants/parameters used in modern climate models. And the values used with their uncertainties.
(PS: I know that any question related to global warming tends to trigger some people, I was called dumb the last time I asked a scientific question here. If you can't discuss climate models without getting snarky, please don't respond).
 
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  • #2
The latest book of Lawrence Krauss, the physics of climate change. Begins from simple models and elaborates.
 
  • #3
A search using 'climate change'+parameters yields many possible sources including:

From EU with respect to migration:
https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/publica...impact-parameters-potential-drivers-migration

From USA environment department an overview of selected parameters:
https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/weather-climate

NASA contributes a paper on climate cycles affected by Earth's motions:
https://climate.nasa.gov/news/2948/milankovitch-orbital-cycles-and-their-role-in-Earth's-climate/
 
  • #4
hacivat said:
The latest book of Lawrence Krauss, the physics of climate change. Begins from simple models and elaborates.
Thank you.
 
  • #5
nrqed said:
Can someone point out to a resource where would be provided a list and description of the constants/parameters used in modern climate models. And the values used with their uncertainties.

That's quite a large topic due to the different models regularly used for different purposes (climate modelling is a very wide field, far beyond global warming issue). Krauss' book is indeed a good one, I also suggest this one to start but it won't satisfy all your needs :
Farmer, G. T., & Cook, J. (2013). Climate change science: A modern synthesis: Volume 1 - The physical climate. Springer.

Personally I would start with older references about older models because it would be simpler and more explicit. Something like this:
https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-94-009-3041-4

Or this one:
https://www.elsevier.com/books/general-circulation-model-development/randall/978-0-12-578010-0
 

FAQ: A question about the parameters/constants entering climate models

What are parameters and constants in climate models?

Parameters and constants are numerical values that are used in climate models to represent various physical properties and processes of the Earth's climate system. These can include factors such as solar radiation, atmospheric composition, and ocean circulation.

How are parameters and constants determined for climate models?

The values for parameters and constants in climate models are determined through a combination of observations, experiments, and theoretical calculations. Scientists use data from sources such as satellites, weather stations, and ocean buoys to inform their models, and also conduct controlled experiments to better understand the underlying physical processes.

Can parameters and constants be changed in climate models?

Yes, parameters and constants can be changed in climate models in order to test different scenarios and understand how they may impact the Earth's climate. However, these changes are based on scientific evidence and are not arbitrary, as they must accurately reflect the physical properties and processes of the Earth's climate system.

How do parameters and constants affect the accuracy of climate models?

The accuracy of climate models depends on many factors, including the quality and quantity of data used, the complexity of the model, and the skill of the scientists running the model. Parameters and constants play a crucial role in determining the behavior of the model and can greatly impact its accuracy. Therefore, it is important for scientists to continually refine and improve these values to ensure the most accurate predictions.

Are parameters and constants the only factors considered in climate models?

No, parameters and constants are not the only factors considered in climate models. Other important factors include boundary conditions, such as land use and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as feedback mechanisms, which can amplify or dampen the effects of certain parameters. Climate models are complex systems that take into account a multitude of factors in order to accurately simulate the Earth's climate.

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