Based on the resources this week and prior knowledge I have on the polar ice caps, I believe that there will be much change in the Earth. Humans, plants and animals will have to adapt or will be unable to survive.
It seems that the predictions of flooding make sense for the amount of ice that will melt as it breaks off into the ocean. That alone would mean many parts of the Earths land will be flooded and unable to support human, plant and animal life. The other effects such as change in amount of salt in the water, which will change the currents that will affect the climate in some areas is also a major change that would require adaptations. There chain reactions that would occur if the polar ice caps melt.
I believe that humans are making huge changes in the Earth. However, I am not totally convinced that the Earth is not going through a natural change. I would like to know more about if the ice caps did melt, what are the predictions for Earth leveling out and readjusting to the changes.
I would also like to know what else we can do to make more people not only aware of the changes that human are causing, but allow those people to be more thoughtful. My husband for example believes that global warming is a natural phenomenon. I have no problem with his opinion. However, it seems irresponsible to not take steps in keeping Earth clean for our future.
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteWhat chain reactions do you think will occur when/if the polar ice caps melt? Personally, I believe we will see potable-water shortages in many parts of the world, droughts, and a decrease in the salinity of the ocean water which may or may not be enough to effect density.
I agree with you are about the water shortage since the climate may change resulting in drought. The salinity of the water is something that could be enough to effect density. If that does happen it could create a change in the currents.
ReplyDeleteI am sure there are many other chain reactions that could happen if the polar ice caps melt. I know there are many links to ecosystems that seem very small, but could cause extinction or major adaptations.