Estimate global temperature increase from solar forcing

In summary, solar forcing refers to changes in the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth's surface and can impact global temperature. However, it is not the primary driver of current global warming, as human activities play a larger role. Solar forcing is just one of many factors that can influence global temperature, and its impact is relatively small compared to other factors such as greenhouse gas emissions. There is not a direct correlation between solar activity and global temperature, and scientists use various methods to estimate the global temperature increase from solar forcing.
  • #1
nwag93
8
0

Homework Statement


using a climate sensitivity of 0.5K per watt per square meter, estimate how much of the .9 c global temperature increase since 1900 could be due to solar forcing who value is the range of .06 to .24 w/m2



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


.5 x .06 = .03
.5 x .24 = .12

Im not sure If I am on the right track
 
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  • #2
Yes, I believe that's all that's needed, but always include units. Maybe you are expected to represent the answer as a percentage?
 

1. How does solar forcing impact global temperature?

Solar forcing refers to changes in the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth's surface. This energy can impact the Earth's climate and contribute to changes in global temperature. The amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth is influenced by factors such as the Earth's orbit, the tilt of its axis, and the amount of solar radiation emitted by the sun.

2. Can solar forcing alone account for the increase in global temperature?

No, solar forcing alone cannot account for the increase in global temperature. While changes in solar radiation can impact global temperature, they are not the primary driver of current global warming. The increase in global temperature over the past century is primarily attributed to human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

3. How does solar forcing compare to other factors affecting global temperature?

Solar forcing is just one of many factors that can influence global temperature. Other factors include greenhouse gas emissions, volcanic activity, and natural climate cycles. While solar forcing may play a role in short-term fluctuations in global temperature, its impact is relatively small compared to the effects of human activities.

4. Is there a direct correlation between solar activity and global temperature?

There is not a direct correlation between solar activity and global temperature. While solar activity can impact global temperature, there are many other factors that can also influence temperature, making it difficult to establish a direct relationship. Additionally, the Earth's climate is a complex system, and small changes in one factor can have cascading effects on other aspects of the climate.

5. How do scientists estimate the global temperature increase from solar forcing?

Scientists use a variety of methods to estimate the global temperature increase from solar forcing. These include analyzing historical climate data, using climate models to simulate past and future climate scenarios, and studying the effects of solar activity on the Earth's atmosphere and surface. These methods help scientists understand the role of solar forcing in shaping the Earth's climate and how it may contribute to changes in global temperature.

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