Global Warming Math Activity

1.  In the following exercise: use the rearranged formula to calculate the emissivity value of the Earth for an average mean temperature of 280K.

T = fourth root of [(SI) (1-A) / (4)(e)(s)]:

T = 280K

SI = 1370 Watts/m2

A = 0.30

 s = 5.67 x 10-8 Watts/(m2)(K)4

        EMISSIVITY:    "e"         Temperature :    Kelvin
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

 

2.  Repeat the exercise with the same equation and values, with the exception of temperature.  This time, shoot for a temperature of 284K, which would approximate a doubling of the CO2 concentration you have in question 1.

        EMISSIVITY:    "e"         Temperature :    Kelvin
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

3. Results:

The emissivity for Earth at 280K is:  ______

The emissivity for Earth at 284K is: ______

 

4.  Find information on the impact of global climate change on Earth systems.

Return to OPTIONS-->