Long-Term Variations in Solar Radiation and Its Role in Air Temperature Increase at Dome C (Antarctica)

Based on a previously developed empirical model of global solar irradiance (EMGSI) at the Dome C station under all-sky conditions, and on good simulations of global solar radiation and its losses in the atmosphere caused by absorption and scattering components, as well as albedos at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) and the surface (TOAsur) during 2006–2016, similar estimations for the above parameters during 2018–2021 and 2006–2021 were computed by further application of this empirical model, and reliable calculations were also obtained, as in 2006–2016. The long-term variations in the above variables were thoroughly investigated during 2006–2021. For annual averages over 2006–2021, the calculated and observed global solar radiation decreased, and the absorption and scattering losses increased, well associated with increases in absorption and scattering atmospheric substances. Air temperature increased by 0.99 °C, showing regional climate warming. The mechanisms of air temperature increase were fully studied, and the basic mechanism reported previously was further confirmed. Additionally, the mechanisms of air temperature change vary with gases, liquids, and particles (GLPs) and with sites. Therefore, a proposal is recommended that, to reduce climate warming, all forms of direct emissions of GLPs and the secondary formation of new GLPs in the atmosphere produced by these directly emitted GLPs via chemical and photochemical reactions (CPRs) should be controlled. The estimated and satellite-derived albedos during 2006–2021 decreased at the TOAsur. An integrated understanding of solar radiation transfer in the atmosphere and of energy balance at the TOAsur is necessary.