2023-12-20 14:57:53
Runaway Greenhouse Effect Could Turn Earth Into “Uninhabitable Hell” Like Venus
Astronomers from the University of Geneva have recently simulated for the first time the runaway stage of the Earth’s greenhouse effect, and the results are alarming. The researchers have found that if the greenhouse effect becomes out of control, the Earth could transform from a temperate planet to a thermally runaway planet, with surface temperatures reaching a scorching 1,000°C.
This discovery has raised concerns that the Earth’s fate could be similar to that of Venus, which is often referred to as Earth’s evil twin. Despite being roughly the same size and made of rock, Venus is a barren sulfur planet with surface temperatures as high as 500°C, making it the hottest planet in the solar system.
The study, published in the Review of Astronomy and Astrophysics, used a 3D global climate model to explore how the climate and atmosphere would evolve if the Earth’s temperature were to spiral out of control. The team of astronomers warns that even a slight increase in solar radiation could trigger a chain reaction resulting in a catastrophic runaway greenhouse effect.
According to the researchers, water vapor is a key factor in the loss of control. While gases like carbon dioxide and methane contribute to global warming, an excessive buildup of water vapor could lead to a runaway greenhouse effect. Once the Earth reaches a critical threshold for water vapor content, it would be unable to cool down, ultimately leading to the complete evaporation of the oceans.
The scientists have calculated that if the runaway process were to begin on Earth, the evaporation of just 10 meters of the ocean surface would cause the surface pressure to increase, eventually leading to the complete evaporation of the oceans within a few hundred years.
The experts also warn that if the Earth’s average temperature rises by more than 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial times, there is a risk of uncontrollable climate change. Although the current state is different from the runaway greenhouse effect simulated by scientists, it serves as a stark warning that Earth could be approaching a “doomsday” scenario.
Climate scientists are urging for urgent action to mitigate the effects of global warming and prevent the Earth from following the same path as Venus. The study’s findings underscore the need for immediate and decisive steps to combat climate change and protect the future of our planet.
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