1909-1991

American physical oceanographer who provided fundamental theories on sea-floor spreading, the interaction between atmospheric processes and the land and ocean, the carbon dioxide balance and its effects on global climatic change (the "greenhouse effect"), and population studies. Revelle's research at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography (where he served as director from 1950 to 1964) ranged from oceanographic exploration to radiation effects on marine life. He received the U.S. National Medal of Science and the American Geophysical Union created the Revelle Medal in his honor for achievements in ocean science.