Geological data reveal that there have been abrupt changes in the past
climate. Examples are the terminations of Pleistocene glaciations, the
sudden cooling after the last deglaciation (Younger Dryas), and the formation
of ice sheets.
Model studies suggest the importance of multiple equilibria
of the climate system. Especially the role of the oceanic thermohaline
circulation has been discussed recently.
Paleo- and Long Term Climate Variability
Some specific research topics are listed here:
A numerical model is being developed which is appropiate for centennial
to millennial time scales:
A simplified atmospheric circulation
model for use in paleoclimate studies
Gerrit
Lohmann (MPI), Frank Lunkeit (University of Hamburg), K. Fraedrich,
Mojib
Latif
Model description
We just started to model climate variability on centennial and longer
time scales.
Initially, we shall work with the atmospheric model PUMA and the ocean model LSG.
The research will be focused on centennial
climate variability, Milankowitch forcing (solar radiation),
paleo-scenarios and process oriented issues. Topics are: