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Estimating the biogenic enhancement factor of weathering using an inverse viability method

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  • von Bloh, Werner
  • Bounama, Christine
  • Eisenack, Klaus
  • Knopf, Brigitte
  • Walkenhorst, Oliver

Abstract

To determine the influence of the biosphere on weathering we use a dynamic model of the global carbon cycle. It takes into account the most important processes for the long-term evolution of the Earth. The model is solved under a slowly changing environment of increasing solar luminosity and volcanic activity and continental area. By comparing the model results for the global average temperature with data derived from δ18O values from cherts it is possible to quantify the biogenic enhancement factor of weathering. For this purpose a newly developed inverse viability method is applied, which allows for calculating the range of possible biogenic enhancement factors consistent with the data. We find that in the Precambrian the weathering was 5.4 times lower than in the Phanerozoic era. This supports the hypothesis that the Cambrian explosion was caused by a positive feedback between the spread of biosphere, increased silicate weathering, and a consequent cooling of the climate.

Suggested Citation

  • von Bloh, Werner & Bounama, Christine & Eisenack, Klaus & Knopf, Brigitte & Walkenhorst, Oliver, 2008. "Estimating the biogenic enhancement factor of weathering using an inverse viability method," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 216(2), pages 245-251.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:216:y:2008:i:2:p:245-251
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2008.03.005
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. François Robert & Marc Chaussidon, 2006. "A palaeotemperature curve for the Precambrian oceans based on silicon isotopes in cherts," Nature, Nature, vol. 443(7114), pages 969-972, October.
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