Ellen Druffel served on a National Research Council committee that in 2006 determined the last few decades of the 20th century were warmer than any comparable period in the last 400 years. Druffel, professor of Earth system science, studies oceans to determine past records of water temperature and circulation. By examining annual coral bands, she can determine the mixing patterns and temperature of oceans in the past. Through this research, Druffel is discovering how the oceans have changed, which helps researchers understand the impact of global warming on the ocean's ability to absorb greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. Contact Druffel at 949-824-2116 or edruffel@uci.edu.

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