Increases in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere can lead to a rise in average global temperatures. But how does this happen? In this presentation Dr. Andy Ruth of the UCC School of Physics explains why.

The global temperature of the Earth is based on the balance between the energy our planet receives from the Sun in the form of radiation, and the energy that is emitted by the Earth, also in the form of radiation. This presentation aims at explaining the most fundamental aspects that determine this radiation balance. Starting with an overview of the Sun’s electromagnetic spectrum and its properties, the audience will learn about absorption, emission, and scattering of radiation. The role of the Earth’s atmosphere and the greenhouse effect on the energy balance, and on global temperatures, will be outlined.

Andy Ruth is an exceptional science communicator and this event should not be missed by anyone interested in climate change, meteorology or general science.

Dr Andy Ruth

Albert (Andy) Ruth obtained his PhD in molecular laser spectroscopy from the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen (Germany) in 1992. After research fellowships in Canada, Greece, Germany and Ireland he started his academic teaching career in the Physics Department at University College Cork in 1999. His current research interest in affiliation with UCC’s Environmental Research Institute is the development of ultra-sensitive optical trace gas detection methods for applications in atmospheric and environmental monitoring, as well as laser remote sensing. Being a member of the European Geophysical Union, Prof Ruth has an extensive publication and presentation record, and is active in several international research networks in atmospheric sciences