Analyze the diagram below and determine what will happen if the ice cover melts by completing the statement.
the absence of ice causes less reflection and _______ in the ocean, adding additional warming to the atmosphere.
A absorption
b reflection
c convection
d respiration
A) absorption
The absence of ice causes less reflection and absorption in the ocean, adding additional warming to the atmosphere.
To determine the answer, we need to understand the role of ice cover in reflecting sunlight. Firstly, ice cover acts as a natural reflector, bouncing sunlight back into space rather than allowing it to be absorbed by the Earth's surface. This reflection helps in cooling the Earth's climate.
Now, let's examine the given options to determine what will happen if the ice cover melts:
A. Absorption: This option suggests that if the ice cover melts, there will be increased absorption of sunlight by the Earth's surface. This is not correct, as melting ice would decrease reflection, not increase absorption.
B. Reflection: This option is correct since the absence of ice means less reflection will occur, with more sunlight being absorbed by the ocean instead.
C. Convection: Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids. While it may play a role in redistributing heat, it is not directly related to the absence of ice cover.
D. Respiration: Respiration is a process unrelated to the melting of ice and its impact on the climate.
Therefore, the correct answer is B. reflection. The absence of ice causes less reflection, leading to additional warming of the atmosphere due to increased absorption of sunlight by the ocean.