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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Exploring the Effects of Atmospheric Forcings on Evaporation: Experimental Integration of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer and Shallow Subsurface
Published on: June 8, 2015
Atmospheric processes and observations
1Department of Meteorology, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6BB, UK.
The atmosphere plays a key role in abrupt climate change, influencing energy transport and climate variability. This study examines atmospheric dynamics using observational and model data to understand rapid climate shifts.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Climate Science
- Earth System Science
Background:
- The atmosphere is a critical component of the Earth's climate system.
- Understanding abrupt climate change requires examining energy transport and climate variability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and discuss the central role of the atmosphere in abrupt climate change.
- To contextualize atmospheric dynamics within poleward energy transport and climate variability.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of observational data.
- Utilizing climate model simulations.
- Illustrating concepts with specific examples.
Main Results:
- The atmosphere significantly influences the rate and nature of climate change.
- Poleward energy transport is a key mechanism in atmospheric contributions to climate shifts.
- Climate variability is intrinsically linked to atmospheric processes driving abrupt changes.
Conclusions:
- The atmosphere is central to abrupt climate change dynamics.
- Understanding atmospheric energy transport and variability is crucial for predicting rapid climate shifts.
- Observational and model data support the proposed role of the atmosphere in abrupt climate change.
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