Why has the temperature of the Arctic Ocean changed during the last 40 years?(1 point)
Responses
Sea ice has produced more salt, causing the cold ocean water to sink.
Sea ice has produced more salt, causing the cold ocean water to sink.
Less snow falls in the Arctic now than 40 years ago.
Less snow falls in the Arctic now than 40 years ago.
More sunlight now reaches Earth than in the past.
More sunlight now reaches Earth than in the past.
Sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean.
Sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean.
All of the above statements are correct and contribute to the changing temperatures of the Arctic Ocean during the last 40 years. Here is a step-by-step explanation:
1. Sea ice has produced more salt, causing the cold ocean water to sink.
- As sea ice forms, it expels salt, making the surrounding water denser. This denser water sinks to the bottom of the ocean, causing the circulation of water within the Arctic. This circulation helps regulate the temperature and distribute heat.
2. Less snow falls in the Arctic now than 40 years ago.
- Climate change and warming temperatures have led to a decrease in snowfall in the Arctic. Snow acts as an insulator, reflecting sunlight back into space and keeping the region colder. With less snow, more sunlight is absorbed, leading to warmer temperatures.
3. More sunlight now reaches Earth than in the past.
- As a result of changing atmospheric conditions and decreased ice cover, more sunlight is reaching the Earth's surface in the Arctic. This increased solar radiation contributes to the warming of the region.
4. Sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean.
- The melting of sea ice exposes more of the dark ocean surface, which absorbs sunlight rather than reflecting it back into space. This absorption of sunlight by the ocean leads to further warming of the Arctic Ocean.
These factors, along with other complex interactions within the Earth's climate system, have resulted in significant changes in the temperature of the Arctic Ocean over the past four decades.
The correct answer is: Sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean.
One way to gather information about the changing temperature of the Arctic Ocean over the last 40 years is to examine the effects of sea ice melting. When sea ice melts, it exposes the dark ocean surface, which absorbs more heat from sunlight compared to the reflective surface of the ice. This extra absorption of heat leads to an increase in the temperature of the ocean water.
To confirm this, you could look at scientific studies and research on the subject. These studies might involve monitoring changes in sea ice coverage and the resulting impacts on the temperature of the Arctic Ocean. Research papers, articles, and reports published by reputable scientific organizations can provide valuable insights into this matter.