Which of the following is/are the consequence(s) of melting of Arctic ...
Impact of Melting Arctic Ice:
- Global Climate Change:
- The Arctic and Antarctic act like the world’s refrigerator. They balance out other parts of the world that absorb heat. The loss of ice and the warming waters will affect sea levels, salinity levels, and current and precipitation patterns. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Danger to Coastal Communities:
- Global average sea level has risen by about 7-8 inches since 1900, and it’s getting worse.
- Rising seas endanger coastal cities and small island nations by exacerbating Coastal Flooding and storm surge. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
- Food Security:
- Polar vortexes, increased heat waves, and unpredictability of weather caused by ice loss are already causing significant damage to crops on which global food systems depend. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Loss of Methane Store:
- Permafrost in the Arctic region (ground that is permanently frozen) stores large amounts of methane, which is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
- As more quickly the arctic ice is lost, more rapidly permafrost will melt. This will result in a vicious cycle that may result in a climate catastrophe.
- Biodiversity Threat:
- Melting of the Arctic ice puts the Arctic region’s vibrant biodiversity under serious threat.
Which of the following is/are the consequence(s) of melting of Arctic ...
The consequences of melting Arctic ice are significant and far-reaching. They have the potential to impact various aspects of the Earth's climate system and have implications for both regional and global weather patterns. The correct answer is option D, which includes all three consequences mentioned in the question.
1. Change in current and precipitation patterns:
Melting Arctic ice can lead to changes in ocean currents and precipitation patterns. The melting ice releases freshwater into the ocean, which can alter the density and salinity of seawater. This, in turn, affects the thermohaline circulation, a global current system that helps distribute heat around the planet. Changes in the thermohaline circulation can disrupt the flow of warm and cold ocean currents, potentially leading to shifts in regional climates and weather patterns. Furthermore, the melting ice can also contribute to the rising sea levels, which can impact coastal areas and result in changes in precipitation patterns.
2. Polar vortexes:
The polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air that resides over the polar regions during the winter months. Melting Arctic ice can weaken the polar vortex, causing it to become more unstable and shifting its position. This can result in the polar vortex extending further southward, bringing cold air and severe winter weather to regions that are not typically affected by such conditions. The weakening and displacement of the polar vortex have been linked to events like the "Beast from the East" in Europe and the polar vortex outbreaks in North America.
3. Surge in storms:
The melting Arctic ice can also contribute to a surge in storms. As the ice cover diminishes, more open water is exposed, which can absorb more solar radiation and warm the surrounding atmosphere. This increased heat and moisture can fuel the formation and intensification of storms, including hurricanes and cyclones. Additionally, the reduction in sea ice can also lead to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, which can impact storm tracks and increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
In conclusion, the consequences of melting Arctic ice are manifold and have the potential to impact current and precipitation patterns, polar vortexes, and the occurrence and intensity of storms. These changes have implications for regional and global climate systems and highlight the urgent need to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.