81 citations · 178 across the 12 of their papers we have counts for
4 papers · 1 filter
Physical limits of wind energy within the atmosphere and its use as renewable energy: From the theoretical basis to practical implications
Axel Kleidon
How much wind energy does the atmosphere generate, and how much of it can at best be used as renewable energy? This review aims to give first-order estimates and sensitivities to a…
Empowering the Earth system by technology: Using thermodynamics of the Earth system to illustrate a possible sustainable future of the planet
Axel Kleidon
With the use of the appropriate technology, such as photovoltaics and seawater desalination, humans have the ability to sustainably increase their production of food and energy whi…
Understanding the Earth as a whole system: From the Gaia Hypothesis to Thermodynamic Optimality and Human Societies
Axel Kleidon
The notion that the whole is more than the sum of its parts has a long tradition in science. This, of course, also applies to the Earth system. With its myriad of processes, spanni…
What limits photosynthesis? Identifying the thermodynamic constraints of the biosphere within the Earth system
Axel Kleidon
Photosynthesis converts sunlight into the chemical free energy that feeds the Earth's biosphere, yet at levels much lower than what thermodynamics would allow for. I propose here t…