How much would the earth heat up if all water turned to vapour?

In summary, the amount of water vapor in the Earth's atmosphere and its potential impact on the greenhouse effect is a complex topic with many factors to consider. It is difficult to determine exactly how much the Earth would heat up due to an increase in water vapor, as it would depend on various conditions such as the Earth's surface temperature and atmospheric pressure. Additionally, the relationship between the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere and its impact on temperature is not linear. Further research and analysis would be needed to fully understand the potential effects of an increase in water vapor on the Earth's temperature.
  • #1
Synetos
40
1
We have 1.400.000.000 km³ water which would become 2.24E12 km³ of water vapour.
Does anyone know how much the Earth would heat up due to the greenhouse effect of all this vapour?
 
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  • #2
Synetos said:
We have 1.400.000.000 km³ water which would become 2.24E12 km³ of water vapour.
Does anyone know how much the Earth would heat up due to the greenhouse effect of all this vapour?

I would guess that your question cannot be answered in the form stated. First of all, the surface temperature of the Earth would have to be raised above the critical point of water (647.10K) before all liquid water could be vaporized. Secondly, your volume change assumes normal atmospheric pressure, and the addition of all that water vapor would raise the pressure immensely.

At present, the water content of the atmosphere is generally regarded as equivalent to 2.5 cm of liquid water if condensed and evenly distributed over the face of the Earth. Scholars differ on the precise absorption of water vapor, but a shortwave absorption of 64 watts per square meter and a longwave absorption of 128 watts per square meter is in the ballpark. Add another 19 shortwave and 59 longwave for clouds (liquid and solid water).

Increasing the number of vapor molecules in the atmosphere will not result in a linear increase in absorption, since little increase results once the optical depth is attained. That is, once the number is such that no significant solar radiation in the absorption spectra of vapor reaches the Earth and once the number is such that no significant terrestrial radiation in that spectra reaches the outside of the atmosphere then further increases in the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere will have little effect on atmospheric temperature.

I'll let you take it from there.
 

1. How much would the earth heat up if all water turned to vapour?

The earth would heat up significantly if all water turned to vapour. It is estimated that the average temperature would increase by at least 8 degrees Celsius.

2. Would the earth become uninhabitable if all water turned to vapour?

If all water on earth turned to vapour, it would be extremely difficult for most forms of life to survive. The extreme heat and lack of water would make it very challenging for organisms to survive.

3. How long would it take for all water to turn to vapour?

The amount of time it would take for all water on earth to turn to vapour is difficult to estimate. However, it would likely take a significant amount of time, as the earth's oceans hold a vast amount of water.

4. Would the earth's climate be permanently changed if all water turned to vapour?

If all water on earth turned to vapour, the earth's climate would be permanently changed. The water cycle, which helps regulate the earth's temperature and weather patterns, would be disrupted, leading to long-term changes in the climate.

5. How would the earth's ecosystems be affected if all water turned to vapour?

The earth's ecosystems would be drastically affected if all water turned to vapour. Many plants and animals rely on water for survival, and without it, entire ecosystems could collapse. The loss of water would also lead to changes in the food chain and could cause widespread extinction of species.

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