Modeling the Effect of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide on the Global Radiative Heat Balance

Abstract

Because of fossil fuel combustion, the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide is increasing, and thereby raising the earth's average temperature through the greenhouse effect. Results of a radiative heat balance simulation of the future dynamic behavior of the average global temperature are reported. Based on projected fuel usage patterns, a 6..cap alpha..K temperature rise within the next 200 years is forecast. Such a temperature rise would be significant and would add weight to the theory that fossil fuel combustion will change climate. (2 graphs, 13 references)