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Atmospheric carbon dioxide through the Eocene-Oligocene climate transition
Paul N Pearson1, Gavin L Foster, Bridget S Wade
1School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3YE, UK. pearsonp@cardiff.ac.uk
Nature
|September 15, 2009
Summary
Antarctic ice sheet formation was triggered by a significant drop in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. CO2 reduction preceded ice growth, with levels stabilizing around 760 parts per million during maximum glaciation.
Area of Science:
- Paleoclimatology
- Geochemistry
- Climate modeling
Background:
- The Eocene-Oligocene transition (33.5-34.0 Ma) marked the formation of the Antarctic ice sheet.
- Ice sheet initiation is hypothesized to be linked to atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels falling below ~750 ppmv.
- The precise timing and magnitude of CO2 changes relative to ice sheet evolution remain uncertain.
Observation:
- Boron isotope analysis of Tanzanian microfossils provides estimates of past atmospheric CO2.
- CO2 levels decreased before major Antarctic ice growth.
- CO2 levels recovered to pre-transition values, then gradually declined again.
Findings:
- Atmospheric CO2 levels were between 450-1500 ppmv during maximum Antarctic ice sheet growth, with a central estimate of ~760 ppmv.
- The Antarctic ice sheet persisted through a period of CO2 recovery, suggesting a non-linear response to climate forcing.
- A decline in CO2 played a crucial role in the development of the Antarctic ice sheet.
Implications:
- These findings align with carbon cycle modeling, confirming CO2's role in Antarctic glaciation.
- The study helps elucidate mechanisms and feedbacks driving major climate shifts.
- Provides critical data for understanding Earth's climate sensitivity and past transitions.
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