Question

1. which factor contributes to sea level rise besides glacial melting?

a. carbon footprint
b. albedo effect
c. thermal expansion
d. ice core sampling

Explanation:

To determine the factor contributing to sea - level rise (other than glacial melting), we analyze each option:

• Option a: Carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted, and it is a cause of climate change (which in turn causes sea - level rise), but it is not a direct factor like glacial melting or thermal expansion.
• Option b: The albedo effect is related to the reflection of solar radiation. A lower albedo (e.g., due to less ice) can lead to more heat absorption, but it is not a direct factor for sea - level rise like thermal expansion.
• Option c: Thermal expansion occurs when water heats up. As the ocean absorbs heat (due to global warming), the water molecules move more and take up more space, which directly leads to an increase in sea level.
• Option d: Ice core sampling is a method used to study past climate conditions, and it has nothing to do with causing sea - level rise.

Answer:

c. Thermal expansion