Foundations of Climate Science

Are you curious about the Earth's climate and the forces that shape it? This course provides a solid grounding in the core principles of climate science, exploring the physical and chemical processes that drive our planet's weather and long-term climate patterns. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the climate system has evolved from the early solar system to human history, and how current scientific understanding is built upon fundamental scientific laws. What you'll learn: * Grasp the basic physics of radiation, energy balance, and atmospheric circulation. * Understand the chemical cycles that influence atmospheric composition and climate. * Explore the historical context of climate change across geological and human timescales. * Learn about the methods used to study past climates and model future scenarios. * Gain foundational knowledge of key climate system components like oceans, ice, and land. This course begins with essential definitions and fundamental concepts, progressing to a detailed examination of climate drivers and their interactions. It is designed for individuals with no prior background in climate science, requiring no prerequisites beyond a general interest in the subject. Start your journey into understanding our planet's climate today.