The Science of Our Changing Climate

Compelling and accessible coverage of the science needed to understand climate change, requiring only a basic understanding of algebra.

Michael A. Box (Author), Gail P. Box (Author)

9781009372343, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 2 May 2024

350 pages
26.1 x 20.7 x 2.6 cm, 1.15 kg

'A very nice exposition of the science.' Cyrus Taylor, Case Western Reserve University

This compelling textbook provides a broad overview of the science underpinning our understanding of our climate, and how it is changing. Presented in clear and accessible language, and requiring only minimal algebra, it enables students to understand how our planet “behaves” under “normal conditions” and how human activity has moved us away from that normal. It walks the student comprehensively through the basic science, including how greenhouse gases absorb radiation and, crucially, a chapter on aerosols, major players in climate change. Diverse case studies and examples illuminate the impact and connections to real world events while review questions and exercises consolidate knowledge. Including the latest results from the IPCC 6th Assessment Report, it concludes by exploring climate modelling, equipping students with an understanding of how to simulate both past climate changes and projections of future climate change. Online resources include lecture slides, solutions and Excel code.

1. Planet in peril
Part I. Chemistry: 2. Atmospheric composition and chemistry
3. Sources and sinks of greenhouse gases
4. Atmospheric aerosols
Part II. Physics: 5. The dry atmosphere
6. The moist atmosphere
7. Atmospheric circulation
weather and climate
Part III. Radiant Energy: 8. Radiant energy, the primary climate driver
9. Solar radiation and its atmospheric interactions
10. The ozone layer and (its) health
11. Longwave radiation transfer
12. Remote sensing of a dynamic environment
Part IV. The Climate System: 13. The ocean's role in climate
14. Interactions and feedbacks in the climate system
15. Modelling weather and climate
16. Climates past
Part V. Our Changing Climate: 17. Driving climate change
18. How and why is our climate changing? 19. Recent weather extremes
20. Climate(s) of the twenty-first century.

Subject Areas: Meteorology & climatology [RBP]