On the Correlation between Forcing andClimate Sensitivity

Joint Program Report
On the Correlation between Forcing andClimate Sensitivity
Sokolov, A.P. (2010)
Joint Program Report Series, 8 pages

Report 188 [Download]

Abstract/Summary:

The possible correlation between climate sensitivity and radiative forcing is studied using versions of the NCAR Community Atmospheric Model (CAM) model with different climate sensitivities. No such correlation was found for the CO2 forcing. A weak correlation for the direct sulfate aerosol forcing is associated with differences in cloud cover in control climate simulations with different versions of the model. Presented results suggest that correlation between sensitivity and radiative forcing in the 20th century simulations with different AOGCMs is not a reflection of physical reality but is a result of different treatments of forcing agents, primarily aerosols.

Citation:

Sokolov, A.P. (2010): On the Correlation between Forcing andClimate Sensitivity. Joint Program Report Series Report 188, 8 pages (http://globalchange.mit.edu/publication/14280)
  • Joint Program Report
On the Correlation between Forcing andClimate Sensitivity

Sokolov, A.P.

Report 

188
8 pages
2010

Abstract/Summary: 

The possible correlation between climate sensitivity and radiative forcing is studied using versions of the NCAR Community Atmospheric Model (CAM) model with different climate sensitivities. No such correlation was found for the CO2 forcing. A weak correlation for the direct sulfate aerosol forcing is associated with differences in cloud cover in control climate simulations with different versions of the model. Presented results suggest that correlation between sensitivity and radiative forcing in the 20th century simulations with different AOGCMs is not a reflection of physical reality but is a result of different treatments of forcing agents, primarily aerosols.