A SEARCH FOR HUMAN INFLUENCES ON THE THERMAL STRUCTURE OF THE ATMOSPHERE

The observed spatial patterns of temperature change in the free atmosp here from 1963 to 1987 are similar to those predicted by state-of-the- art climate models incorporating various combinations of changes in ca rbon dioxide, anthropogenic sulphate aerosol and stratospheric ozone c oncentrations. The degree of pattern similarity between models and obs ervations increases through this period. It is likely that this trend is partially due to human activities, although many uncertainties rema in, particularly relating to estimates of natural variability.