Climate Modeling In-Class Discussion: Radiation & Mars

Properties of Martian Atmosphere A web site, by a student in Finland, appears to have reliable data on Mars. The web site appears to be no longer active. The file “Mars Physical and Orbital Statistics” contains this data. Let's assume the data is reliable, and use it as a starting point for "planetary engineering".

Surface Temperature Compare radiative temperature computed in Problem Set 1 with the radiative surface temperature in the Mars information file. How do they compare?

Surface Temperature Suppose we wanted to make the planet more habitable (by human standards). What optical depth would we need for radiative equilibrium surface temperature of 0˚C?

Surface Temperature For this optical depth … … what lapse rate does this give? (What is a relevant depth to use?)

Surface Temperature Assume this optical depth is produced by carbon dioxide. How would the mass and hence surface pressure of the atmosphere change? Is there enough CO2 frozen in the ice to provide this mass?

Surface Temperature Assume this optical depth is produced instead by water vapor. How much would be needed? Is there enough frozen water to provide this? How would you make it evaporate? How long would it take to evaporate it?

In-Class Discussion ~ End ~