Sea Level Rise and Climate Change Effects
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Questions and Answers

Sea level rise refers to the increase in ocean water levels, caused by the melting of land-based ice and the expansion of water as it ______.

warms

The main reason behind rising sea levels is the burning of ______, which releases CO2.

fossil fuels

CO2 absorbs and radiates heat, causing the water to ______.

warm up

By 2050, sea levels along the USA coastlines are expected to rise as much as ______ inches above today's waterline.

<p>12</p> Signup and view all the answers

Every foot of rise in sea levels can swallow up to ______ feet of shoreline.

<p>100</p> Signup and view all the answers

By 2100, the sea level rise is expected to be around another ______ centimeters.

<p>44</p> Signup and view all the answers

Melting ice adds to rising sea levels, which increases coastal ______.

<p>erosion</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of melting ice disrupts ocean currents and alters ______ patterns.

<p>weather</p> Signup and view all the answers

Melting ice releases trapped ______, which speeds up global warming.

<p>methane</p> Signup and view all the answers

Arctic species like polar bears become ______ due to melting ice and changing habitats.

<p>vulnerable</p> Signup and view all the answers

Melting ice displaces people and ______ to a bigger degree.

<p>animals</p> Signup and view all the answers

Many animals in the arctic live, rest, hunt and mate on ______.

<p>sea ice</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the sea ice melts, many of these animals would lose their ______.

<p>homes</p> Signup and view all the answers

Rising sea levels could make these animal’s environments harder to live in and maybe even ______.

<p>unlivable</p> Signup and view all the answers

Planting ______ and plants can also make a difference in mitigating climate effects.

<p>trees</p> Signup and view all the answers

Having more trees can help lower sea ______ levels substantially.

<p>rise</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise serves as a reminder of the consequences of our ______ on our planet.

<p>actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

The impact of rising sea levels can lead to the ______ of entire cities.

<p>displacement</p> Signup and view all the answers

The time to act is ______ to preserve our planet.

<p>now</p> Signup and view all the answers

Not taking action could lead to extinction of a ______.

<p>species</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Sea Level Rise

The increase in ocean water levels, mainly caused by melting glaciers and ice sheets, and the expansion of water as it warms due to global warming.

What is the main cause of sea level rise?

The primary cause of sea level rise is the burning of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. CO2 traps heat, warming the planet and causing water to expand and ice to melt.

What is thermal expansion?

As the Earth's temperature increases, the ocean absorbs more heat, leading to the expansion of water molecules and a rise in sea levels. This is called thermal expansion.

How does melting ice contribute to sea level rise?

Melting ice from glaciers and ice sheets contributes significantly to sea level rise. As temperatures rise, ice melts and flows into the ocean, adding to the volume of water.

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What are the impacts of rising sea levels on coastal communities?

The gradual rise in sea level poses a serious threat to coastal communities around the world. Rising sea levels increase the risk of coastal erosion, flooding, and damage from storms.

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How does melting ice affect oceans and ecosystems?

Melting icebergs and glaciers disrupt ocean currents, altering weather patterns and impacting marine ecosystems. This can lead to changes in fish populations, disrupt migration patterns, and affect the food chain.

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What is the impact of melting permafrost on climate change?

The release of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, from melting permafrost in the Arctic region exacerbates global warming. This creates a feedback loop, as warming temperatures lead to more melting and further accelerate climate change.

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How does melting ice affect wildlife?

Melting ice affects wildlife habitats, particularly those of Arctic species like polar bears, which rely on sea ice for hunting and breeding. As sea ice disappears, these animals face a greater risk of starvation and habitat loss.

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Why is climate change a global concern?

Climate change is a global concern that requires immediate action. Rising sea levels and melting ice are clear signs of the urgent need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing sustainable practices.

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What are the future predictions for sea level rise?

By 2050, sea levels are projected to rise significantly, particularly along coastlines. This will lead to increased flooding, erosion, and displacement of coastal communities.

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Ice Melting

The process of ice turning into water due to increasing temperatures.

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Climate Change

The gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans.

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Habitat Loss

The loss of habitats due to rising sea levels, making it difficult for animals to survive.

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Animal Migration

The movement of animals from one area to another due to changes in their living environment.

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Extinction

The disappearance of a species from Earth, often due to habitat loss or climate change.

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Adaptation

The process of adapting to new conditions, often in response to climate change.

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Carbon Dioxide Absorption

The removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, often through the process of photosynthesis in plants.

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Tree Planting

The process of planting trees to help absorb carbon dioxide and reduce climate change.

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Human Impact on the Environment

The collective impact of human activity on the environment, often leading to climate change and environmental problems.

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Study Notes

Sea Level Rise and Climate Change

  • Sea level rise is increasing ocean water levels due to melting ice and water expansion.
  • The primary cause is burning fossil fuels, releasing CO2 which traps heat and warms the water.
  • Warmer water expands, and CO2 also accelerates ice melt, both contributing to sea level rise.
  • Oceans absorb over 90% of excess heat, significantly fueling sea level rise.
  • Current rate of sea level rise is approximately 3mm per year.

Future Predictions of Sea Level Rise

  • By 2050, USA coastlines are projected to rise by 12 inches (one foot).
  • Each foot of rise can lead to 100 feet of coastline loss due to slope.
  • By 2100, sea levels are expected to rise another 28-61 cm (17 inches).

Impacts of Melting Land-Based Ice

  • Increased coastal erosion and vulnerability to storms.
  • Melting icebergs threaten coastal communities and ecosystems.
  • Disruption of ocean currents and weather patterns.
  • Impacts on wildlife habitats and increased vulnerability of Arctic species (e.g., polar bears).
  • Release of trapped methane accelerates global warming.
  • Displacement of people and animals due to habitat loss.

Impacts on Arctic Animals

  • Sea ice is vital habitat for polar bears, walruses, seals, arctic foxes, hares, and owls.
  • Loss of sea ice leads to habitat loss, migration, and potential extinction for affected species.

Mitigating Sea Level Rise

  • Increased tree planting and plant life to absorb CO2.
  • Reducing paper use and practicing better recycling habits (double-sided printing).

Conclusion

  • Sea level rise highlights the consequences of human actions on the planet.
  • The impact of rising sea levels is substantial, affecting millions of lives and demanding immediate action.

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Description

Explore the critical impacts of sea level rise due to climate change. This quiz covers the causes, current trends, and future predictions of rising ocean levels and their consequences on coastal areas and ecosystems. Test your knowledge on how melting land-based ice affects wildlife and human communities.

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