Question

1. how does melting ice affect sea levels?

a. it raises sea levels and impacts coastlines
b. it leads to reduced salinity in deep oceans
c. it stabilizes temperatures in colder regions
d. it decreases rainfall in urban locations

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option a: Melting ice (especially from glaciers and ice sheets) adds water to the oceans, which raises sea levels. Higher sea levels can erode coastlines, flood coastal areas, etc. This is a direct and well - known impact of melting ice on sea levels.
• Option b: Melting ice (from glaciers, ice sheets) mainly affects sea level and the salinity of surface waters more than deep - ocean salinity. The process of how melting ice affects deep - ocean salinity is indirect and not the primary effect on sea levels.
• Option c: Melting ice is a result of rising temperatures, and it does not stabilize temperatures in colder regions. In fact, the loss of ice (which reflects sunlight) can lead to more heat absorption and further temperature increases.
• Option d: The connection between melting ice and rainfall in urban locations is very indirect and not a primary or well - established effect of melting ice on sea levels (or even a direct effect on urban rainfall).

Answer:

a. It raises sea levels and impacts coastlines