These "Frequently Asked Questions" are broken down into common FAQ topics, each with samples of the kinds of questions each topic addresses. For a basic overview, please visit our Climate Scenarios Primer.

Topics	Questions
Data File Information	In what formats are the scenario data files available? What are the units? Are the data change fields? How do I open the files in Excel?
Baseline Climates	What is a baseline climate? Is the baseline modelled or observed and why?
Scenario Construction Notes	How were these scenario data computed? How were the change fields constructed? What time slices were used and why?
GCM Information Table	What are the differences between the global climate models used? Where can I find journal article references for each of the global climate models?
Which Scenario	How many scenarios should be used? What is an ensemble-mean scenario and should I use one? Should I use a scenario which includes sulphate aerosol effects or just greenhouse gases or should I use both?
Projected Change Comparison	How do the projected changes in global mean temperature and precipitation change compare between the different global climate models? How do the projected changes in mean temperature and precipitation change over the Canadian land area compare between the different global climate models?
Downscaling Background	Are scenarios available at a finer resolution? What are the advantages and disadvantages of downscaling or constructing fine resolution scenarios? How can I downscale or construct fine resolution scenarios? What is a weather generator? What is LARS-WG? What is SDSM?
GCM Criteria	What criteria are used to choose which climate model data is made available?
Scenario Types	Are there any other ways of constructing climate change scenarios other than using climate models?
Emissions	What are the assumptions regarding how much CO2 is released into the atmosphere in these scenarios? Are there other emissions scenarios and what are they?