The Greenhouse EffectThe Greenhouse EffectIntroductory PhysicsIntroductory Physics

Scott A. Mathews, Ph.D.

The Catholic University of America

Black Body Radiation

I is the amount of energy per unit surface area per unit time per unit solid angle emitted in the frequency range between ν and ν+dν by a black body at temperature T; h is Planck's constant; c is the speed of light; and k is Boltzmann's constant.

Black Body Curves for Sun and Earth

Atmospheric Absorption

Atmospheric Absorption

“Tipping Point”

•Non-linear system

•Positive feedback

•Changes in Albedo

•Melting Ice

•Changes in chemistry

•Solubility of CO2

•Changes in plant life

•Effecting Albedo

•Reducing sequestration