PCMDI > WCRP CMIP3 Model Output > Diagnostic Subprojects

PI:	Michael Winton
Institution:	National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Abstract:
This project will apply a new technique for separating atmospheric and surface influences on the shortwave budget to the Arctic simulations of the models. The project will address the issue of whether differences in the perturbed shortwave budgets contribute to differences in simulated Arctic warming. And, assuming so, quantitatively assess the roles of changes in atmospheric and surface optical properties in the differences. The study is motivated by the finding of significant differences in Arctic temperature, sea ice and cloud cover responses to CO2 forcing in the predecessors to the AR4 models. The focus will be on shortwave and related variables in the 1%/yr CO2 increase simulations.
Publications:
Winton, M., 2006: Amplified Arctic climate change: What does surface albedo feedback have to do with it?. Geophysical Research Letters, 33, doi:10.1029/2005GL025244. Abstract. Full Article. Edit. Winton, M., 2006: Surface albedo feedback estimates for the AR4 climate models. Journal of Climate, 19(3), 359-365. Abstract. Full Article. Edit. Winton, Michael, 2006: Does the Arctic sea ice have a tipping point?. Geophys. Res. Lett., 33, doi:10.1029/2006GL028017. Abstract. Edit. Add Publication