Departmental Colloquium

The Quantum Mechanics of Global Warming

Brad Marston
Department of Physics, Brown University

Time
Wed. April 3, 2002     1:30 PM     Stirling A

Abstract

Quantum mechanics plays a crucial, albeit often overlooked, role in our understanding of the Earth's climate. In this colloquium I will use three well-known aspects of quantum mechanics to present a simple physical picture of what may happen as the concentrations of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide continue to increase. I will also utilize some basic astronomy and wave mechanics to decipher historical climate records. I conclude with a personal perspective on the politics versus the science of global warming.

Refreshments will be available in the department lounge at 2:30 pm.

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