Question

question 10 of 10
the thermohaline circulation is likely to slow down with global warming. how
might a slower thermohaline circulation affect earths climate?

a. it would increase the number of severe storms.
b. it would decrease ocean salinity.
c. it would prevent ice caps and ice sheets from melting.
d. it would lower global sea levels.

Explanation:

Thermohaline circulation plays a crucial role in distributing heat around the Earth. When it slows down, it disrupts the normal heat - distribution patterns. This disruption can lead to more extreme weather events, including an increase in the number of severe storms.
Option B: A slower thermohaline circulation does not directly decrease ocean salinity. Ocean salinity is more related to processes like evaporation, precipitation, and freshwater input from rivers and melting ice.
Option C: A slower thermohaline circulation is not a preventive measure for ice caps and ice sheets from melting. In fact, global warming (which can affect thermohaline circulation) is the main driver of ice - melt.
Option D: A slower thermohaline circulation does not lower global sea levels. Melting of ice caps and ice sheets (due to global warming) and thermal expansion of seawater are the main factors affecting sea levels.

Answer:

A. It would increase the number of severe storms.