Question

Question

Why do scientists believe that winters might be milder on the Eastern Seaboard in the future? Use the dropdown box to complete the sentence.(1 point)
A change in the amount of polar ice will

Answer 1

A change in the amount of polar ice will affect ocean currents and atmospheric patterns, leading to milder winters on the Eastern Seaboard.

Answer 2

So it would reflect more sunlight to the eastern seaboard, making it warmer

Answer 3

Not quite. A change in the amount of polar ice primarily influences ocean currents and atmospheric circulation rather than directly reflecting sunlight. When polar ice decreases, it can lead to changes in the distribution of heat in the atmosphere and ocean.

For the Eastern Seaboard, this could mean:

1. Altered Ocean Currents: Melting ice can change sea surface temperatures, which can then impact ocean currents like the Gulf Stream. Changes in these currents can influence weather patterns and temperatures on land.

2. Feedback Mechanisms: Less ice means less solar radiation is reflected (a phenomenon known as the albedo effect), and instead, more heat is absorbed by the ocean. This can modify weather systems, potentially leading to milder winters.

Overall, the decrease in polar ice is linked to climatic changes that can affect the severity of winters, but it doesn't directly mean that more sunlight is reflected; in fact, it can lead to more absorption of heat by the oceans.