Articles tagged with Climatology
Research from UBC and HKU Earth scientists reveals that massive volcanism played a key role in triggering oceanic anoxia, with CO2-induced environmental warming creating 'dead zones' over short timescales. The findings provide important insights into the sensitivity of the Earth system to global biogeochemical cycles and marine biology.
The NIST-developed emberometer uses digital cameras to track embers in mid-air and reconstruct their 3D shapes. This tool helps researchers understand the behavior of embers, which can aid in developing better protection for structures during wildfires.
Researchers found that climate change will amplify the temporary cooling caused by large eruptions and reduce its effect on small- and medium-sized eruptions. The study used global climate models to simulate how volcanic aerosols might be affected by warming scenarios.
Countries lagging behind in renewable energy adoption risk lower industrial competitiveness and economic instability. Uneven transition patterns can exacerbate existing international tensions, making it difficult for late decarbonizers to catch up with early movers.
A new study suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is losing stability and may be approaching a critical threshold. The AMOC plays a crucial role in regulating Europe's temperatures and weather patterns, and its collapse could have severe global implications.
A new study found that one-quarter of Americans suffered from heat-related symptoms in 2020, with women, low-income households, and non-white populations most vulnerable. The research also revealed that the pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, making it harder for people to access cooling centers and medical care.
A recent study found that greenhouse gases from human activity and warmer North Atlantic Ocean temperatures contributed to the Northeast's increased extreme precipitation since 1996. The research used global climate model simulations and statistical methods to isolate the causes of the increase.
A new study reveals significant differences in forest recovery rates across Amazonian countries, with some experiencing little to no recovery even 20 years after deforestation. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to protect and restore remaining forests.
A new study suggests that thawing permafrost in Siberia may release large amounts of methane gas from limestone formations, posing a significant threat to global warming. Elevated methane concentrations were detected in two areas with limestone bedrock, indicating that fracture systems in these formations became permeable upon warming.
Research by Lancaster University has found elevated levels of toxic chemicals, known as 'forever' chemicals, in the Arctic Ocean. These chemicals, used in products like stain-proof uniforms and non-stick pans, can accumulate in sea ice due to long-range transport from the atmosphere.
A study found that the Australian bushfires had a more significant impact on global climate than pandemic lockdowns, cooling the planet by about .06 degrees Celsius. The fires injected sulfates and other particles into the atmosphere, disrupting the climate system and influencing storm tracks.
Karen Akerlof's NSF-funded project aims to address equity concerns in co-production of knowledge with University of Alaska Fairbanks. The study employs Q methodology techniques to identify common discourses among US regional climate science center scientists and stakeholders.
A new paper provides ten guiding principles for structured lab group meetings that are more inclusive and productive, leading to better science. The guidelines aim to create diverse and inclusive lab environments, increasing individual and collective productivity.
A University of Tsukuba study found that Japan's south foehn is driven by dynamic mechanisms, not thermodynamic effects. Dangerously hot windstorms occurred when a typhoon was present, highlighting the need for predictive models to mitigate harm.
A French-US team has discovered that Mars' climate alternated between dry and wetter periods, with lake-deposited clays forming the base of Mount Sharp before drying up completely about 3 billion years ago.
A new study predicts that alien species will continue to spread globally at an alarming rate, increasing by 36% worldwide by 2050. In Europe, the number of alien species is expected to rise by 64%, with over 2,500 new arrivals predicted.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that the mass of microplastics in the upper waters of the Atlantic Ocean is approximately 12-21 million tonnes. This figure surpasses previous estimates and suggests a substantial underestimation of plastic waste entering the ocean over the past 65 years.
A study published in Nature Communications has found that plant hormones strigolactones reduce the transport of auxin, a key hormone involved in vein formation. This slowdown allows for more focused and efficient vein development, which can lead to improved crop yields and better adaptation to challenging climate conditions.
Researchers report that RCP8.5 agrees with historical carbon dioxide emissions to within 1%, suggesting its continued use in climate assessments. The scenario is consistent with expected outcomes of current and announced policies through 2050, indicating its value for climate planning.
A previously unrecognized ocean current was discovered transporting water to the Faroe Bank Channel Overflow in the North Atlantic Ocean. The research team identified a new path for cold and dense water flowing at depth, which led to this exciting finding.
A new study suggests that the Arctic Ocean will likely be ice-free in summer due to high future CO2 emissions. However, rapid reductions in CO2 emissions could lead to occasional ice-free summers even before 2050. The study's findings highlight humanity's impact on the Arctic ecosystem and climate.
Researchers at Arizona State University found that some aquatic plants depend on the landscape for carbon through bicarbonate extraction, not just atmospheric CO2. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding how freshwater ecosystems function and respond to environmental changes.
The Cool Science program is expanding its reach to other cities and towns in Massachusetts and Kansas, introducing it to young people and commuters, while also adding adult mentors. The program aims to study the effectiveness of using art to teach climate science and extreme weather events.
A new standard of reference for assessing solar forecast has been proposed, combining climatology and persistence methods to gauge forecaster performance. The combined approach provides a way to compare forecasters' skills and determine the best forecasting methods.
New research reveals that bacteria in coastal mud produce vast amounts of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a climate-cooling gas. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that DMSP is mainly produced by photosynthetic algae in ocean surface waters.
Researchers from Portland State University propose a new approach to managing toxic chemicals, shifting focus from risk mitigation to elimination. They recommend supporting diverse knowledge forms, increasing community involvement in policy design, and investing in alternative production methods.
A recent UFZ study analyzed 10,000 studies on yield and biodiversity in intensification measures, finding a 20% increase in yield but a 9% species loss. Medium-intensity areas showed the highest increase in yield and greatest species loss.
A global carbon tax could reduce greenhouse gas emissions efficiently, according to a survey of people in the US, India, UK, South Africa, and Australia. The majority of respondents supported carbon taxes if revenues were returned to citizens or spent on climate projects.
A study by University of Missouri researchers found that creating a positive school climate can reduce suspension rates by 10 percent. A positive climate features clear expectations, consistent discipline and supportive relationships between students and teachers.
Researchers found that ants select medium-sized soil grains with quartz over feldspar for their structures, potentially altering palaeoclimatic data. This study highlights the importance of considering bioturbatory action in paleontological analyses.
The Amazon forest dieback hypothesis predicts a climate-driven shift of the region's rainforests, with estimated costs ranging from $957 to $3,589 billion over 30 years. Preemptive actions, such as curbing deforestation, are likely to be beneficial even in the absence of the dieback.
The study analyzed nearly 46,000 records of alien species from 1500-2005, finding that a substantial proportion of newly recorded species had not been previously reported elsewhere. This suggests that access to new potential alien species has increased over time, contributing to the global rise in emerging alien species.
A new study explores how Arctic sea-ice decline affects Eurasian circulation, revealing a link between the two. The research uses SVD analysis to quantify model uncertainties and find that a larger pan-Arctic sea-ice decline weakens the polar cell, leading to anomalous sinking motion in Eurasia.
Genetic research reveals swamp wallabies are part of the Macropus genus, which includes grey and red kangaroos. The study found shared retrotransposons with woodland wallabies, indicating a common ancestry around five to seven million years ago.
New research from Carnegie Institution for Science suggests that North Atlantic wind farms can generate at least three times more power than onshore wind farms, tapping into winds throughout the atmosphere. However, this tremendous wind power is seasonal and primarily available during winter months.
Researchers found a clear correlation between winter temperatures and beak size, with the coldest winters associated with the smallest beaks. This study challenges previous theories on the driving forces behind beak evolution and provides new insights into the relationship between climate and morphological traits.
University of Oklahoma College of Law student Aaron Fournier has been selected for the Udall Foundation's Native American Congressional Internship, focused on tribal sovereignty and public policy. He will work with federal employees in Washington, D.C., to promote increased tribal sovereignty after completing his studies.
Researchers found that when participants knew each other, they were more likely to cooperate in the prisoner's dilemma game. The findings suggest that knowing others can promote cooperation and reduce hate and fake news on social networks.
The AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prizes for Excellence in Science Books recognize recent publications that promote high-quality science writing and illustration, engaging readers of all ages. Winners include Sara Levine's 'Tooth by Tooth' and Pamela S. Turner's 'Crow Smarts', which explore fascinating topics like animal teeth and crow intelligence.
Researchers at the University of Utah discovered how Arctic melt ponds form by clogging ice pores with freshwater. This process lowers permeability, allowing meltwater to pool on top of the ice, which affects climate modeling and sea ice dynamics.
Researchers found that ice surface melts in layers, with the first layer melting at -38° C and the second at -16° C. The team also discovered a distinct spectroscopic response between the quasi-liquid layer and supercooled water.
The CLASH model suggests that hot climates with less temperature variation lead to a faster life strategy, less focus on the future, and less self-control, contributing to more aggression and violence. Researchers believe their model can help explain the impact of climate on rates of violence in different parts of the world.
A new study analyzes hailstorm distribution and characteristics over a 13-year period, finding distinct seasonal cycles and wind direction correlations. The research provides high-resolution insights for weather forecasting, climatology, agriculture, economics, and insurance.
Researchers found that particle surfaces can impact ice crystallization and encourage different ice crystal orientations. This discovery could help improve understanding of climate science, air travel, and cryopreservation.
Scientists have discovered a 'bucket brigade' that brings liquid to Titan's north pole, creating lakes and seas. Meanwhile, NASA's Kepler telescope has opened up possibilities for exoplanet studies. Research also explores abrupt shifts in phenology and vegetation productivity under climate extremes.
A new computer program simulates ocean conditions, sea scallop population dynamics, and economic impacts on the fishery, providing a tool for informed discussion among stakeholders. The model predicts potential declines in sea scallop harvests over several decades if current carbon dioxide emissions continue.
A new study finds that photovoltaic panels outperform green roofs and white roofs in cold Canadian climate. Green roofs are the only option to reduce both heating and cooling energy use, while photovoltaic panels demonstrate high environmental performance across all impact categories.
Scientists from GEOMAR found a possible reason for increasing oxygen deficiency in tropical zones, attributing it to fluctuations in trade winds. This change affects the habitat of fish species and can reverse once trade winds strengthen.
A new review published in PNAS reveals that Americans view scientists as competent, but not entirely trusted. To gain public trust, scientists should focus on conveying warm intentions and expertise, rather than persuasive agendas. The study's findings highlight the importance of warmth and trustworthiness in scientific communication.
Research reveals disparate fertilizer and irrigation practices among different age groups, socioeconomic statuses, and climates in urban, suburban and rural areas. The study found that lawncare varies more within a city than expected, suggesting that one sustainability message may not fit all.
A team of 90 international experts expect a sea-level rise of 40-60 centimeters by 2100 and 60-100 centimeters by 2300 under strong emissions reductions. However, unmitigated emissions scenarios predict a high-end value of 1.5 meters or more by 2100 and 4.0 meters or higher by 2300.
Researchers identified a new enzyme in the lignin biosynthetic pathway that reduces lignin content and increases cellulose conversion to glucose. This breakthrough has the potential to increase the efficiency of biofuel production from biomass by up to four-fold.
Detailed mapping of the Kima'Kho tuya in northern British Columbia shows that the ancient regional ice sheet through which it erupted was twice as thick as previously estimated. This discovery could provide new constraints on paleoclimate models, advancing our understanding of glaciovolcanic eruptions and their impact.
Researchers used an animal model and whole-genome sequence data to identify hundreds of gene variants that potentially helped humans adapt to changing environmental conditions. The findings provide a road map for understanding human biological history and modern-day variability, including traits like resistance to infectious diseases.
Researchers argue that e-cigarettes are crude drug delivery systems for refined nicotine, posing safety concerns due to poor quality control and variability in nicotine content. The devices also have not been sufficiently evaluated in scientific studies, making them ineffective as quitting aids for smokers.
The University of Arizona has been named a CUDA Teaching Center by NVIDIA, focusing on leveraging GPU power for scientific discovery and training the next wave of parallel programmers. Ali Akoglu, assistant professor, aims to integrate GPU computing into mainstream computer programming curriculum.
The interactive map shows a majority or complete loss of freezing zones in every state analyzed under high carbon pollution scenario. Early snowmelt and altered water cycles threaten irrigation supplies, cold-water stream life, and forest health.
A new strategy proposes a biodiversity-focused approach to reduce carbon emissions from deforestation, favoring high-biodiversity nations in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. This approach has been shown to contribute more to slowing biodiversity loss than traditional carbon-based credit scenarios.
A new study found that coral recruitment drops sharply after major bleaching events or hurricanes, with some species not recruiting at all. This disruption threatens the survival of larger, more spectacular reef-building corals as climate change intensifies and storms become more frequent.
Coatings made from plant extracts and vegetable oils significantly reduced lenticel breakdown (LB) in apples, with Malaga trees showing the most improvement after multiple applications. Researchers found that applying coatings three times before harvest was more effective than single treatments.