Next Science on Saturday lecture looks at climate models and the weather around us

"Withstanding Climate Change: You Can Change the World," by Lab scientist Dean Willliams and teachers Roger Johnson and Tiffany Burkel is the third lecture in the Science on Saturday series on Feb. 19, at the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St. in Livermore. Two presentations are offered at 9:30 and 11:15 a.m.

This presentation is designed to give middle and high school students a basic understanding of what climate models are and how they function. The evolution of the resolution and complexity of climate models from the mid 1970s to the present is discussed, as are the changes in data set size. Methods for testing climate models against a variety of benchmarks such as historical climate changes or seasonal changes will be explained. The presentation shows that various climate models have different strengths and weaknesses and that the average of a number of models produces the best results. Several key issues arising from global climate change will be highlighted followed by suggestions for student actions that will help them limit their carbon dioxide emissions.

The Science on Saturday lecture series highlights cutting-edge LLNL science presented by leading Lab researchers joined by master high school science teachers.

Admission is free. Seating is on a first-come basis. For more information about the 2011 Science on Saturday series, go to the Science on Saturday Website or contact Richard Farnsworth, 422-5059.