why has the temperature of the Arctic Ocean changed during the last 40 years?
a. sea ice produced more salt, causing the cold ocean water to sink
b. less snow falls in the Arctic now then 40 years ago
c. more sunlight now reaches Earth than in the past
d. sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean
d. sea ice has melted, allowing more sunlight to hit the ocean
The temperature of the Arctic Ocean has changed over the last 40 years due to multiple factors. These include:
1. Melting sea ice: One of the primary reasons for the temperature change is the melting of sea ice. As the sea ice melts, it exposes the dark ocean water, which absorbs more sunlight and heat, causing the ocean temperature to increase.
2. Changes in snowfall: Another contributing factor is a decrease in snowfall in the Arctic region compared to 40 years ago. Less snow cover means there is less insulation to protect the ocean from absorbing heat from the atmosphere, leading to warmer ocean temperatures.
3. Altered ocean circulation: The increased influx of freshwater from melting ice and decreased salinity of the Arctic Ocean can affect ocean circulation patterns. This can impact the transport of heat throughout the ocean, resulting in changes in temperature.
4. Changes in sunlight exposure: It is also true that more sunlight now reaches the Earth compared to the past due to various factors, including changes in atmospheric conditions and decreased cloud cover. More sunlight reaching the Arctic Ocean enhances the heating effect and contributes to temperature changes.
Of the given options, the most relevant factors are the melting of sea ice (option d) and changes in snowfall (option b). However, it's important to note that all the mentioned factors can collectively contribute to the temperature changes in the Arctic Ocean during the last 40 years.
The temperature of the Arctic Ocean has changed over the last 40 years due to multiple factors. One of the main factors is the significant melting of sea ice in the region. This has allowed more sunlight to penetrate the ocean's surface, leading to increased absorption of solar radiation and consequently raising the water temperature.
To determine the causes for the changing temperature of the Arctic Ocean, scientists gather and analyze data from various sources over an extended period. They employ methods such as satellite observations, oceanographic measurements, and climate models to assess the changes and understand the underlying mechanisms.
In this case, option (d) is the correct answer as the melting of sea ice allows more sunlight to hit the ocean, resulting in increased warming. However, it is essential to note that all the options provided (a, b, and c) can have some influence on the temperature changes but are not the primary drivers of the Arctic Ocean temperature changes observed over the last 40 years.