The global dust cycle and uncertainty in CMIP5 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5) models

Wu, Chenglai; Lin, Zhaohui; Liu, Xiaohong

doi:https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10401-2020

Articles | Volume 20, issue 17

https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10401-2020

© Author(s) 2020. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-20-10401-2020

© Author(s) 2020. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Articles | Volume 20, issue 17

Research article

|

08 Sep 2020

Research article |

| 08 Sep 2020

The global dust cycle and uncertainty in CMIP5 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5) models

Chenglai Wu, Zhaohui Lin, and Xiaohong Liu

Data sets

MERRA-2 tavgM_2d_adg_Nx: 2d, Monthly mean, Time-averaged, Single-Level, Assimilation, Aerosol Diagnostics (extended) V5.12.4 Global Modeling and Assimilation Office https://doi.org/10.5067/RZIK2TV7PP38

MERRA-2 tavgM_2d_aer_Nx: 2d, Monthly mean, Time-averaged, Single-Level, Assimilation, Aerosol Diagnostics V5.12.4 Global Modeling and Assimilation Office https://doi.org/10.5067/FH9A0MLJPC7N

CMIP5 Program for Climate Model Diagnosis and Intercomparison (PCMDI) https://esgf-node.llnl.gov/search/cmip5/

Short summary

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the global dust cycle in 15 models participating in the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). We assess the global budget and associated uncertainties. We also quantify the discrepancies in each model. The results highlight the large uncertainties in both the locations and intensities of dust emission. Our study will serve as a useful reference for model communities and help further model improvements.