Reduction of Arctic sea ice is expected to:
A) decrease the amount of solar radiation absorbed by surfaces in the Arctic.
B) lead to a further increase in air temperatures in the Arctic region.
C) cause the Arctic to cool as the cold meltwater enters warmer waters.
D) increase the average surface albedo across the Arctic region.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reduction of Arctic sea ice leads to less sunlight being reflected back into space (since ice is more reflective than open water), resulting in more solar energy being absorbed by the ocean. This absorption of solar energy causes further warming in the Arctic region, a phenomenon known as the ice-albedo feedback.

Reduction of Arctic Sea Ice Is Expected To