Yes. Climate models are computer programs which simulate the climate or weather patterns over time. They can be used to estimate the Earth’s climate under different conditions by running simulations.

Climate model computer programs use techniques that divide the atmosphere, land, ocean and ice into layered boxes or grid cells to create a 3-dimensional framework. Each grid cell represents a section of the atmosphere, land or ocean.

The results of processes modelled in each grid cell influence neighbouring cells. For example, energy, mass and some other quantities such as salt (in the ocean) and clouds (in the atmosphere) can move horizontally and vertically just like in the real climate.

Climate models split the planet into “grids” in order to calculate what happens in our climate. Source: NOAA.