Question

climate scientists use past data to create future models. this helps them predict possible events.
the graph shown illustrates the heat content of the world ocean.
which of the following is a prediction that can be made based on the data?
it is likely that the temperature will begin to fall after 2010. this will allow more water to freeze in the poles, reducing sea levels.
after 2010, there will be an ice age.
it is likely that the temperature will continue to rise. with this temperature increase, sea level will most likely rise as well.
ocean temperatures will level off and stay constant from 2010 until 2050.

Explanation:

Looking at the graph, the heat content (which is related to temperature) has an upward - trending pattern. When the temperature of the ocean (and by extension, the overall climate) rises, ice at the poles melts. Melting ice contributes to an increase in sea - level.

• The first option says the temperature will fall after 2010. But the graph shows an upward trend, so this is incorrect.
• The second option about an ice - age is not supported by the upward - trending heat content graph.
• The fourth option claims ocean temperatures will level off. But the graph's upward trend (especially the yearly trend line) contradicts this.

Answer:

It is likely that the temperature will continue to rise. With this temperature increase, sea level will most likely rise as well.