This module discusses "The Battery of the Biosphere," explaining how energy from the sun powers ecosystems. Students will learn about energy transfer through food webs and the significance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem health.
This module introduces the scope of the class, outlining the fundamental concepts that will be explored throughout the course. Students will gain an understanding of the various scientific disciplines contributing to climate change knowledge.
This module discusses the concepts of heat and light as they relate to climate. Students will learn about energy transfer, the electromagnetic spectrum, and the role of sunlight in heating the Earth.
This module explores blackbody radiation and its significance in quantum mechanics. Students will learn how blackbody radiation relates to Earthâs temperature and its ability to absorb and emit radiation.
This module presents the first climate model developed to understand the Earth's climate system. Students will learn about the basic components and assumptions behind climate modeling and its relevance to current climate studies.
This module explains the greenhouse effect, detailing how certain gases trap heat in the atmosphere. Students will learn about the importance of greenhouse gases and their impact on global warming.
This module investigates what makes a gas a greenhouse gas. Students will explore molecular characteristics and processes that contribute to the greenhouse effect and climate change.
This module examines the presence of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, discussing their sources and implications for climate change. Students will learn about human activities that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
This module addresses the mechanisms that hold the atmosphere up, including gravity and pressure. Students will learn how these forces interact to maintain the balance of atmospheric gases.
This module explores why it is colder at higher altitudes. Students will learn about the temperature gradient in the atmosphere and the factors that influence temperature variations.
This module covers the dynamics of winds and ocean currents in relation to heat distribution on Earth. Students will understand how these systems affect climate patterns and weather phenomena.
This module discusses the concept of "Six Degrees," exploring the potential impacts of a six-degree increase in global temperatures. Students will learn about the consequences of extreme climate change.
This module investigates feedback mechanisms involving ice and water vapor. Students will learn how these feedbacks can amplify climate change effects and their significance in weather patterns.
This module covers the weathering CO2 thermostat mechanism, detailing how the weathering of rocks regulates atmospheric CO2 levels. Students will learn about the long-term implications of this process on climate.
This module explores the concept of "The Lungs of the Carbon Cycle," focusing on how photosynthesis and respiration in plants contribute to carbon dioxide regulation. Students will learn about the importance of forests and oceans in this cycle.
This module discusses "The Battery of the Biosphere," explaining how energy from the sun powers ecosystems. Students will learn about energy transfer through food webs and the significance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem health.
This module covers the role of coal and oil in the carbon cycle, discussing their extraction, use, and contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Students will learn about the environmental impacts of fossil fuel consumption.
This module explores the role of oil and gas in the global energy landscape. Students will learn about the extraction processes, environmental impacts, and the future of energy production in the context of climate change.
This module addresses the current state of the carbon cycle, examining how human activities are altering natural processes. Students will learn about the implications of these changes for climate stability and future generations.
This module discusses "The Long Thaw," focusing on the long-term effects of climate change on Earth's systems. Students will learn about potential future scenarios and the importance of addressing climate change today.
This module explores "The Smoking Gun," which refers to the clear evidence linking human activity to climate change. Students will analyze different studies and data that demonstrate this connection and its implications for policy-making.
This module discusses "The Present in the Bosom of the Past," focusing on how historical climate data informs our understanding of current climate trends. Students will learn about paleoclimate studies and their relevance to modern climate science.
This module explores "Hot, Flat, and Crowded," addressing the interconnected challenges of population growth, resource scarcity, and climate change. Students will learn about sustainable solutions and their importance for future stability.