9. Extended Questions
a. What happens if the polar ice caps melt?
If the polar ice caps melt, there are two major issues.
1. The melted water will combine with the existing ocean water, causing ocean levels to rise. Low lying areas will begin to see a rise in sea level, and, over time, these areas will be covered.
2. Because the ice caps are made from fresh water, the increased amounts of fresh water will off balance the natural salinity of the Earth's oceans. This, in turn, affects the movement of the deep ocean currents, which rely on the increased salinity to move along the ocean floor. Many believe that this impedes the great global conveyor belt of ocean currents that moves heat and water.
b. What other questions do you have about this Science Inquiry Experience?
This is a great activity. It allows for investigation, as well as open the door to other issues, such as emission's regulations and conservation techniques.
One question - Is there information concerning the recent impact of government regulations on CFC's? Is it too early to tell?
Found a website http://www.nature.org/index.htm that discusses global warming. It also allows you to calculate your carbon footprint - a great activity for our students. :)
Great point about the change in the salinity. I hadn't thought of that!
ReplyDeleteThe website you posted is great, lost of great information and resources available!
ReplyDelete