Climate Change: Past, Present and Future

Ron Vincent
RMC

Abstract

On a geologic timescale the climate of Earth is constantly changing, fluctuating between eras of extreme warmth and frigid cold. The geologic record indicates that sudden changes in climate coincide with mass extinctions over relatively short periods of time.  The mechanisms for climate change are varied, complex and difficult to model. In the Anthropocene Epoch there is an additional factor that must betaken into consideration: human activity.  This talk will cover the basic physics of climate change and compare the current trend of rising temperatures to the geologic record.  There will be an emphasis on Polar Amplification and the near-term consequences.