Wallace S. Broecker (1931-2019) was an American geoscientist and climatologist known for his significant contributions to the understanding of Earth’s climate and its variability. He was a pioneer in the study of ocean circulation, paleoclimatology, and the role of the ocean in regulating the planet’s climate.

Key Aspects of Wallace S. Broecker’s Life and Contributions:

1. Early Life and Education: Wallace Smith Broecker was born on November 29, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He studied geology and chemistry at Columbia University, where he earned his Ph.D. in geology in 1958.
2. Ocean Circulation and Thermohaline Conveyor: Broecker’s groundbreaking research focused on ocean circulation, particularly the role of the “thermohaline conveyor” or “ocean conveyor belt” in regulating global climate. He proposed that the ocean’s circulation, driven by differences in temperature and salinity, plays a crucial role in redistributing heat around the Earth.
3. Paleoclimatology and Proxy Records: Broecker was a leading figure in paleoclimatology, the study of past climates. He used proxy records, such as ice cores, tree rings, and sediment cores, to reconstruct past climate variations and understand the mechanisms behind natural climate changes.
4. Global Climate Change and Global Warming: Broecker was an early advocate for recognizing the potential impacts of human activities on Earth’s climate. He warned about the risks of global warming and the potential consequences of rising greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
5. Carbon Dioxide and the “Great Ocean Conveyor”: Broecker’s work on the carbon cycle and the interaction between the ocean and the atmosphere led him to coin the term “Great Ocean Conveyor Belt.” He emphasized the importance of the ocean’s ability to absorb and release carbon dioxide, which has implications for climate change.
6. Awards and Recognition: Wallace S. Broecker received numerous awards and honors for his scientific contributions, including the National Medal of Science, the Balzan Prize for Geochemistry, and the Crafoord Prize in Geosciences.
7. Legacy: Broecker’s research significantly advanced the understanding of Earth’s climate system and its sensitivity to changes in greenhouse gas concentrations. His work also highlighted the importance of studying past climates to gain insights into future climate scenarios.

Wallace S. Broecker’s influential research on climate change and ocean circulation made him one of the leading figures in the field of climatology. His dedication to understanding the complexities of Earth’s climate system and his efforts to communicate the importance of climate science to the broader public have had a lasting impact on climate research and policy. He passed away on February 18, 2019, leaving behind a significant scientific legacy.