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Multiple Choice
Which of the following would cause the greatest increase in the ecological range of polar bears?
A
Expansion of sea ice due to colder global temperatures
B
Reduction in seal populations
C
Melting of Arctic sea ice due to global warming
D
Increased competition from brown bears
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the ecological range of polar bears: Polar bears rely heavily on sea ice for hunting seals, their primary food source, and for traveling across their habitat. Their ecological range is closely tied to the availability of sea ice.
Analyze the impact of each option on the polar bear's ecological range: Expansion of sea ice would increase their hunting grounds and mobility, while melting sea ice would reduce their range. Reduction in seal populations would decrease food availability, and increased competition from brown bears could limit their access to resources.
Focus on the option that would increase the ecological range: Expansion of sea ice due to colder global temperatures would provide polar bears with more habitat and hunting opportunities, directly increasing their ecological range.
Consider the other options: Melting of Arctic sea ice would shrink their habitat, reduction in seal populations would negatively impact their food supply, and increased competition from brown bears would create additional challenges for survival.
Conclude that the greatest increase in the ecological range of polar bears would result from the expansion of sea ice due to colder global temperatures, as it directly enhances their habitat and hunting opportunities.