Polar or Arctic amplification:
Polar or Arctic amplification refers to the phenomenon where the polar regions experience a more significant increase in temperature compared to the global average. This means that the Arctic is warming at a faster rate than the rest of the world.

Factors contributing to Polar amplification:
Several factors contribute to polar amplification, including:

1. Albedo Feedback: As the Arctic warms, sea ice and snow cover melt, reducing the Earth's albedo. Albedo is the measure of how much sunlight is reflected back into space. With less ice and snow to reflect sunlight, more solar energy is absorbed, leading to further warming. This positive feedback loop amplifies the initial warming.

2. Ice-Albedo Feedback: The melting of sea ice exposes darker ocean surfaces, which absorb more sunlight and release more heat. This additional heat further accelerates the melting of sea ice, leading to more warming.

3. Cloud Feedback: Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns due to global warming can impact cloud formation in the Arctic. Low-level clouds tend to trap heat, while high-level clouds reflect sunlight. If there is a decrease in low-level clouds and an increase in high-level clouds, it can contribute to warming in the Arctic.

4. Atmospheric Heat Transport: The polar regions are influenced by atmospheric circulation patterns, such as the polar jet stream. Changes in these patterns can bring warmer air from lower latitudes into the Arctic, leading to increased temperatures.

Implications on global climate change:
Polar amplification has several implications for global climate change:

1. Accelerated Ice Melt: As the Arctic warms, the melting of glaciers and ice sheets accelerates. This contributes to sea-level rise, which poses a significant threat to coastal communities around the world.

2. Disruption of Ecosystems: The warming Arctic affects the habitats of various species, including polar bears, seals, and walruses. Their populations are declining as their habitats disappear. Additionally, changes in the Arctic ecosystem can impact migratory patterns and the availability of food for other species.

3. Feedback Loops: The melting of permafrost releases large amounts of greenhouse gases, such as methane, into the atmosphere. This creates a positive feedback loop, as increased greenhouse gas concentrations lead to further warming.

4. Weather Patterns: Changes in the Arctic can impact weather patterns globally. The weakening of the polar jet stream can result in more frequent and persistent weather extremes, such as heatwaves, storms, and prolonged cold spells.

Addressing polar amplification is crucial for mitigating the impacts of global climate change. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve Arctic ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices are essential for preserving the Arctic and minimizing the consequences of polar amplification on a global scale.