Revelle, Roger (1909–91)

AN EARLY PREDICTOR of global warming, Roger Revelle helped to start the scientific debate on the issue in the late 1950s. He challenged the accepted notion that global warming was countered by the absorption of carbon dioxide from the oceans. Revelle discovered that the particular chemistry of sea water hinders such absorption. Because of the respect that he earned among the scientific community, Revelle was regarded as a spokesperson for science whose advice on as diverse matters as world population, agricultural policies, education, and the preservation of the environment were held in high esteem.

Born in Seattle, Washington, on March 7,1909, Revelle was raised in Pasadena, California, and soon stood out as a gifted student during his academic career. In 1925, Revelle enrolled at Pomona College ...