hi im doing a debate tomorrow on global warming, i am arguing that it DOES exsit. the opposing side who don't believe in global warming want to say that increases in temperatures don't cause sea levels to rise, instead the tectonic plates of the earth cause changes in sea level.

HOW COULD I COUNTER THEIR POINT?
ANY IDEAS THANKS!

These two sites have proof that global warming is related to rise in temperature.

(Broken Link Removed)

http://www.commondreams.org/headlines05/0219-01.htm

This article argues against the effect of tectonic plate shift as a cause of warming.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080103144448.htm

Global warming is real in the past 100 years. It is about 0.8 degree centigrade. What is controversial are the main causes.

I have recently learned of the arguments that the changing contour of the sea bed, due to tectonic plate motion, may have an effect as large or larger than global warming has had SO FAR in increasing the level of the sea. It is going to be hard for either side to "win" that argument based upon what is known right now. By all means, check out this recent article:
http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/319/5868/1357

The magazine Physics Today recently published an article (March 2008, page 50) that argues against the greenhouse effect being as important as most scientists say.
<<Is climate sensitive to solar variability?
Nicola Scafetta and Bruce J. West>>
I found it to be interestng reading.

To counter the claim that increases in temperatures do not cause sea levels to rise and instead attribute it to tectonic plate movements, you can use the following points to support your argument:

1. Make sure you have a basic understanding of the scientific consensus on global warming and its impact on sea levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a reputable source for information on climate change. Review their reports and summaries in order to understand the consensus position on this issue.

2. Explain the primary mechanism behind sea level rise due to global warming: thermal expansion. Warmer temperatures cause water to expand, which directly contributes to rising sea levels. This is a well-documented and scientifically supported phenomenon.

3. Provide evidence and studies that show a clear correlation between global temperature increases and rising sea levels. Satellite measurements, tide gauge records, and historical data all demonstrate that as temperatures rise, so do sea levels. This evidence helps debunk alternative explanations such as tectonic plate movements.

4. Highlight the difference in time scales between tectonic plate movements and sea-level change. Tectonic plate movements occur over millions of years and result in slow changes in sea levels. In contrast, global warming-induced sea level rise is occurring at an accelerated pace, primarily caused by human activities and increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Address the scientific consensus on the link between global warming and sea-level rise. The IPCC and numerous scientific studies have concluded that global warming is the primary driver of observed sea level rise in recent decades.

By utilizing these points and backing them up with scientific evidence, you can effectively counter the argument that tectonic plate movements are the main cause of changes in sea levels, rather than global warming. Remember to present your arguments in a clear and logical manner while citing credible sources.