Explore fundamental climate concepts through simple simulations and visualizations.
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface. Certain gases in the atmosphere, known as greenhouse gases (GHGs) like Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Methane (CH4), trap some of the Earth's outgoing infrared radiation, preventing it from escaping into space. This trapped energy keeps the planet warmer than it would be otherwise. Human activities, primarily burning fossil fuels, have significantly increased the concentration of these gases, enhancing the greenhouse effect and leading to global warming.
Low (0) to High (100). Current: 30
Albedo is a measure of how much solar radiation is reflected by a surface. Lighter surfaces, like snow and ice, have a high albedo (reflect a lot of sunlight), while darker surfaces, like oceans and forests, have a low albedo (absorb more sunlight). Changes in albedo can significantly impact Earth's temperature. For example, melting ice caps reduce Earth's overall albedo, leading to more absorption of solar energy and further warming (a positive feedback loop).
Low Ice/Low Albedo (0) to High Ice/High Albedo (100). Current: 50
Solar forcing refers to changes in the climate system caused by variations in the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth. The Sun's output is not perfectly constant and can vary over different timescales. While long-term changes in Earth's orbit (Milankovitch cycles) and solar output influence climate over millennia, this simulation focuses on the direct impact of varying solar energy input on Earth's temperature.
Lower (50) to Higher (150). Current: 100% of average