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Paleoclimatology (thesaurus)

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Concept information

study method > modelisation > general circulation model

Preferred term

general circulation model  

Definition

  • A general circulation model (GCM) is a type of climate model. It employs a mathematical model of the general circulation of a planetary atmosphere or ocean. It uses the Navier–Stokes equations on a rotating sphere with thermodynamic terms for various energy sources (radiation, latent heat). These equations are the basis for computer programs used to simulate the Earth's atmosphere or oceans. Atmospheric and oceanic GCMs (AGCM and OGCM) are key components along with sea ice and land-surface components. GCMs and global climate models are used for weather forecasting, understanding the climate, and forecasting climate change. (Adapted from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_circulation_model)

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http://data.loterre.fr/ark:/67375/QX8-RG90VQX9-6

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