[Phys-L] Re: A "simple" physics problem?

[rlamont <rlamont@POSTOFFICE.PROVIDENCE.EDU>]

If water evaporates from the ocean because of an increase in
global temperature (say the sun's output rises slightly) then
there is more mass in the atmosphere. The N2 and O2 content
probably won't change significantly. If I take the new (higher)
weight of the atmosphere and divide it by the surface area of the
earth, I get the globally averaged pressure (which is higher than
before the evaporation).

Did I miss the point of the discussion somewhere?

Bob at PC

> I first  imagine I am on Earth, where the water warms up.
>
> I lack the model for the notoriously problematic  dynamics of
the
> atmosphere, but still, I hazard the guess:
> the pressure over oceans drops, while moist airmass circulates
> to dry land, which sees increased precipitation, and higher
> surface pressure.
>
> I next attempt to visualize a water world whose water mass
> warms throughout. Increased evaporation, reduced integrated
> atmospheric density for that reason. Now, does pressure rise,
> or fall at sea level?   Not sure: what's your view?
>
> Brian W
>
>
>
> Brian Whatcott    Altus OK    Eureka!
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