Asked by Darcey Borellini on Jun 26, 2024
Verified
What is one of the most important aspects about West Antarctica with respect to global sea level?
A) it has large composite volcanoes whose eruptions have changed global climate
B) it cools the adjacent oceans causing them to contract
C) it has large floating ice shelves that could be detached and melted
D) it has large volcanoes whose eruption beneath the ice could cause extremely large floods
West Antarctica
A region of Antarctica that lies west of the Transantarctic Mountains and is largely covered by the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.
Ice Shelves
Large platforms of ice that form where glaciers or ice sheets flow down to a coastline and onto the ocean surface.
Global Sea Level
The average height of the ocean's surface around the globe, which can change due to factors like climate change and tectonic activity.
- Familiarize yourself with the impact of ice melt on the rising of sea levels.
- Acknowledge the effects of ice melt across the globe on the rise in sea levels.
Verified Answer
PG
Priyanka GandhiJun 28, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
West Antarctica is significant in discussions about global sea level because it contains large floating ice shelves. If these shelves were to detach and melt, it could contribute significantly to global sea level rise.
Learning Objectives
- Familiarize yourself with the impact of ice melt on the rising of sea levels.
- Acknowledge the effects of ice melt across the globe on the rise in sea levels.