Reducing the number of fixed assumptions may improve the accuracy of complex process-based models.
Modeling
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Global Atmospheric Model Simulates Fine Details of Gravity Waves
Whole-atmosphere general circulation model captures many aspects of mesoscale gravity wave structures—down to the tens of kilometers—and resulting temperatures and tides.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Surface Folds Hint at Magnitude of Slip Along Thrust Faults
The shape of deformed sediments at the surface may allow researchers to estimate the cumulative slip along thrust faults such as the Chelungpu fault in Taiwan.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Conquering Uncertainties in Tropical Climate Forecasts
The key to better predictions of atmospheric temperature trends in the tropics may lie in more accurate measurements of sea surface temperatures.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Researchers Roll Clouds into Climate Modeling
As computational power grows thanks to improving techniques and technology, scientists are working toward incorporating complex systems such as clouds into global and regional climate models.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Aquifers Spew More Pollution into Oceans Than Rivers
A new model makes a direct estimate of contaminants in submarine groundwater discharge.
Posted inScience Updates
Exploring Natural Hazard Policies with Bike Helmets and Bus Fares
A close look at everyday decisions—whether or not to wear a bike helmet or cheat on bus fare—helps students learn about assessing natural hazards, mitigating risks, and setting political priorities.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Overriding Plate's Properties Affect Subduction
The properties of the plate that does not sink may strongly control subduction zone dynamics.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
As Forests Age, Their Climate Effects Shift
The amount of moisture transpired from leaves increases for some tree species but drops on average.
Posted inScience Updates
Observing and Modeling the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
2014 U.S. AMOC Science Team Meeting;
Seattle, Washington, 9–11 September 2014