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Determining the Influence of Emission Pathways on Outgoing Longwave Radiation over Africa
(2016)
Abstract
The increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into the atmosphere has long been know for it effects on the climate. As of yet, the amount of longwave radiation leaving the top of the atmosphere - known as outgoing longwave radiation or OLR - has not been studied in the context of cli- mate change on a regional basis. Using the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) historical models and Representative Concentration Path- way (RCP) scenarios; along with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad- ministrations (NOAA) OLR satellite data, we determine if observed trends in OLR are forced by GHG emissions or simply a natural variability of the system. It was found that OLR trends are actually forced by the input of CO2 into the atmosphere and they most likely will continue into the future. Other implications related to tropical cyclone activity are also explored.
Keywords
- Outgoing Longwave Radiation,
- Tropical Storm,
- Hurricane,
- Greenhouse Gas
Disciplines
Publication Date
Summer August 4, 2016
Citation Information
Thomas Rechtman. "Determining the Influence of Emission Pathways on Outgoing Longwave Radiation over Africa" (2016) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/thomas-rechtman/1/