Energetics of the Climate System

Energetics of the Climate System is derived from a course taught by Hervé Le Treut, who has been delivering this lecture series for decades to students at institutions such as the École Normale Supérieure, École Polytechnique, and Sorbonne University, along with students from other international institutions. This book offers a comprehensive understanding of the intricate energetics driving the Earth’s climate system. The goal was not only to capture the depth and complexity of this subject, but also to preserve the pedagogical brilliance and unique storytelling style of Hervé Le Treut. This work stands as both a tribute to his remarkable contributions and a reflection of his passion for teaching, having mentored generations of climatologists, engineers, and economists, many of whom – including the co-author Mounia Mostefaoui – have greatly benefited from his guidance. The text retains elements of an oral presentation to evoke the professor’s distinctive voice and teaching approach. The book is structured into five chapters, each independent and deeply interconnected, and is complemented by an appendix of exercises to reinforce its material.