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Calculations by Plass (1956) indicate that a ten percent…

“Calculations by Plass (1956) indicate that a ten percent increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide would increase the average temperature by 0.36 degrees Celsius. But, amplifying or feed-back processes may exist such that a slight change in the character of the back radiation might have a more…” quote by Bill McKibben
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““Calculations by Plass (1956) indicate that a ten percent increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide would increase the average temperature by 0.36 degrees Celsius. But, amplifying or feed-back processes may exist such that a slight change in the character of the back radiation might have a more pronounced effect.””

Bill McKibben

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Small increases in CO₂ can cause larger temperature changes due to feedback loops in the climate system.

In simple terms: CO₂ rise may trigger bigger warming via feedbacks.

Key Takeaway

Consider indirect effects of emissions.

Themes

climate science feedback loops temperature environmental policy

Mood

concerned urgent

Type

scientific policy-oriented

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • public education
  • risk assessment
  • carbon budgeting

Key Concepts

radiative forcing climate sensitivity nonlinear dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How might feedback mechanisms amplify warming?
  • What policies address uncertainty in climate projections?
A Different Perspective

Feedbacks are complex and uncertain, making precise predictions difficult.

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