Global Warming: Understanding the Forecast
Global Warming : Understanding the Forecast is a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of global warming. Written in an accessible way, and assuming no specialist prior knowledge, this important book examines the processes of climate change and climate stability, from the distant past to the distant future.This book examines the greenhouse effect, the carbon cycle, and what the future may hold for global climate. Drawing from a wide range of disciplines, it not only summarizes scientific evidence, but also economic and policy issues, related to global warming. A companion website provides access to interactive computer models of the physics and chemistry behind the global warming forecast, which can be used to support suggested student projects included at the end of each chapter. Global Warming : Understanding the Forecast provides an essential introduction to this vital issue for both students and general readers, with or without a science background.
Customer Review: The next best thing to enrolling at U. of Chicago
I wish to commend this wonderful book written by my colleague, David Archer. The class upon which this book is based is a runaway success, and each year it seems they need to find a bigger lecture hall. When you have read the books like “The Weather Makers,” and “Field Notes from a Catastrophe,” and are ready for something more quantitative but still fairly gentle on the math, this is the one for you. I think it’s the best source around for people who want to get a true scientific understanding of the physics and chemistry of climate change.
Customer Review: Great Book For Anyone!
I honestly believe that after reading this book, anyone will be able to confidently discuss global warming topics from an objective viewpoint.
Dr. Archer wrote this book after teaching a course with the same title for several years. His writing style is as great as his lecture style – non-intimidating, humorous, well-explained examples and analogies, and he teaches the science behind the famous words “global warming”. There is no arm-waving or magical answer. The descriptive text encourages the reader to find answers themselves via simple calculations. In addition, several fun and relevant web-based models are included. For example, in one model, you can calculate how the earth’s temperature may change if you increase the carbon dioxide content of the atmosphere. In another, you can play with the supply of fossil fuels and predict how long it will be before we run out.
I’ve been a teaching assistant to Dr. Archer for two years, and his lectures, which this book is partially based on, have helped students with no previous background understand the science behind global warming, and enjoy themselves while doing it. But as a graduate student, I still find myself consulting his book for general facts about the carbon cycle or atmosphere. It truly is a book that can be enjoyed at any level of background, especially today, when global warming is such a hot (no pun intended) topic. I’ve read the book each year, and look forward to reading it again. Definitely a great buy!
