The Role of the Sun in Climate ChangeThe luminosity of the sun governs the temperatures of the planets. Yet the solar forcing, or driving, of climate, primarily due to changes in solar radiation, has never been well documented. Recent satellite measurements have shown that solar radiation varies as a function of time and wavelength, a concept that has been hypothesized for the past two centuries and has recently become a major topic with all the attention paid to global warming. This book reviews the physics of the concept of solar forcing, from its beginnings in the early 1800's and apparent success in the 1870's, to its near demise in the 1950's and recent resurgence. Since its emphasis is on solar variations as a driver for climate change, with only a brief discussion of other mechanisms, the book will be of most interest to students in climate studies. |
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Abbot appear associated atmosphere average become brightness called cause century chapter climate change conclusions connection considered constant cooling correlation cosmic rays curves drought early Earth effect emission energy equal eruption evidence examine example exist expected field Figure forcing global heat Hypothesis important increase indices influences interest known Lake length less light locations lower magnetic Maunder Minimum maximum mean measurements noted observations occur output peak perhaps period permission physical plotted positive possible precipitation predict present probably problem produced published radiation rainfall records regions relationship remains reveal rings rotation scales seems seen shows signal significant similar solar activity solar cycle solar irradiance stars storm studies suggest sun's sun’s sun/climate surface temperature theory tion tracks tree United values variability variations vary warming weather Wolf Sunspot Numbers