Climate Modeling

1
Climate Modeling

• In-Class Discussion
• Radiation Mars

2
Properties of Martian Atmosphere
A web site, by a student in Finland, appears to
have reliable data on Mars. The web site appears
to be no longer active. The file Mars Physical
and Orbital Statistics contains this data. Let's
assume the data is reliable, and use it as a
starting point for "planetary engineering".
3
Surface Temperature
Compare radiative temperature computed in Problem
Set 1 with the radiative surface temperature in
the Mars information file. How do they compare?
4
Surface Temperature
Suppose we wanted to make the planet more
habitable (by human standards). What optical
depth would we need for radiative equilibrium
surface temperature of 0C?
5
Surface Temperature
For this optical depth what lapse rate does
this give? (What is a relevant depth to use?)
6
Surface Temperature
Assume this optical depth is produced by carbon
dioxide. How would the mass and hence surface
pressure of the atmosphere change? Is there
enough CO2 frozen in the ice to provide this mass?
7
Surface Temperature
Assume this optical depth is produced instead by
water vapor. How much would be needed? Is there
enough frozen water to provide this? How would
you make it evaporate? How long would it take to
evaporate it?
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In-Class Discussion End