It is possible to simulate the conditions of certain climates inside a greenhouse. Glass and other materials can be used to create a space within which the heat and light from the Sun is intensified, making it much warmer than it is outside. The temperature, humidity and air movement can be controlled, recreating the atmosphere of a particular climate.
Climate simulators (or climate models) are complex computer programmers which simulate the Earth’s climate system, including the atmosphere, ocean, land surface and ice, and the interactions between them. The computer programme represents the climate in terms of key quantities such as atmospheric temperature, pressure, wind, and humidity at locations on a three dimensional grid. The atmospheric grid covers the Earth’s surface and extends from the surface to the upper atmosphere. A similar grid for the ocean extends from the ocean’s surface to the ocean floor. By solving the relevant mathematical equations the computer is able to calculate how the state of the atmosphere and ocean evolves in time.
At present, a typical simulator of global climate has grid boxes with horizontal dimensions of approximately 100-200 km; this is known as the “spatial resolution”. Simulators used to predict daily weather use much higher spatial resolution, but typically only simulate a specific region (e.g. the UK). Simulators with higher resolution are more accurate, but they also take longer to run and require larger computers.
To test scientific understanding
Scientists use climate simulators to test and improve their understanding of the climate system. By comparing the simulated climate with observations of the real world, scientists can identify where a simulator needs improvement.
To predict future climate
Climate simulators are used to predict how climate may change in the future. For example, scientists can implement expected future conditions, such as a higher concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and use the simulator to predict how such a change may affect the climate.
Climate simulators are not perfect and scientists are careful to study, quantify and communicate their accuracy and reliability along with particular results. However, climate scientists are confident that climate simulators can accurately represent many fundamental aspects of the climate system for several reasons.
Picture Credit : Google