How closely do the results of the computer programs correspond to results from physical experiments?
• Cannot do physical experiments for global warming. Need to consider other ways to assess the results of the computer simulations. • The most obvious test that could be done to validate the models is to run them for conditions of the past century. • Consider how sensitive GCM predictions are to modifications and improvements Conclusions • GCMs have improved dramatically • Increased computer power allows more experiments, better calibration, and increased resolution (smaller grid size • Increased data collection and basic science research improve understanding of behavior and interactions of climate system components. • Climate models are still in early stage of development. Seem to overestimate the amount of warming that will occur. • Models are a tool for understanding climate change, but not to a stage where we can have a lot of confidence in the precision of their results.
