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Multiple Choice
Which of the following accurately relates the emergent properties of water to the effects of global warming in the Arctic?
A
Although it is feared that sea ice around Alaska and northern Canada may be greatly reduced by atmospheric warming, the high specific heat of water has so far buffered these sea ice communities from significant impacts.
B
An increase in water temperature due to global warming will cause the sea ice formed in the Arctic to be denser and less buoyant.
C
Although a significant increase of air temperature has occurred in the Arctic over the past 50 years, the specific heat of water has thus far buffered against any significant increases in the Arctic ocean temperatures.
D
Ice floats because it is less dense than liquid water; floating ice insulates water below and provides a habitat for some species. The significant increase in Arctic air temperature over the past 50 years is causing a reduction in sea ice, compromising these beneficial effects of sea ice.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of emergent properties of water, which include high specific heat, density differences between ice and liquid water, and the insulating properties of ice.
Recognize that ice is less dense than liquid water, which is why it floats. This floating ice acts as an insulator for the water below and provides a habitat for various species.
Identify the impact of global warming on the Arctic, specifically the increase in air temperature over the past 50 years, which is leading to a reduction in sea ice.
Connect the reduction in sea ice to the loss of its insulating properties and habitat provision, which are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in the Arctic.
Conclude that the emergent properties of water, particularly the density and insulating characteristics of ice, are being compromised due to global warming, affecting the Arctic ecosystem.