Climate research is the process of developing and sharing science-based knowledge that contributes to global well-being. It encompasses both qualitative and quantitative studies, ranging from basic observations to the construction of models that simulate or predict future changes in the Earth’s climate system. Climate scientists work with many disciplines, including atmospheric science, oceanography and geology, to build a holistic view of the complex systems that govern the climate.
The challenges of interpreting observational data are compounded by the fact that they are gappy across space and time, and often come from instruments with limited lifespans. Climate scientists therefore rely heavily on computer simulations, called “reanalyses,” which provide complete gridded observational data over long time periods, and for variables at the surface as well as above it. These reanalysis data can be used to evaluate and improve climate model results, to investigate past climate trends, and to identify the causes of particular events.
In addition, some climate researchers also attempt to measure the probability that particular events (such as hurricanes or floods) were made more likely or intense by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. This is known as event attribution. One approach uses statistical methodologies to infer probabilities of future changes from ensemble climate projections. Other approaches use simulations to “fingerprint” causal factors by comparing their impact on simulated versions of the same event that are conditioned on other factors being held constant.
Other research seeks to understand how different groups of people perceive and think about science-based information on climate change. This kind of qualitative study is typically more inductive than empirical, and provides a fine-grained understanding of differences and similarities between people’s concepts, thoughts and experiences.
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