Article: Arctic Melt Flashcards
Why is sea ice so important?
Sea ice reflects 80% of the sunlight that hits it back into space.
Sea ice reflects 80% of the light that hits it back into space. Why is this important?
Sea ice reflects 80% of the light that hits it back into space. This is important because it keeps the Arctic cool and moderates global temperatures.
How much of the sunlight that hits sea ice is reflected but into space?
Sea ice reflects 80% of the light that hits it back into space.
When the sea ice is melted in the summer, how much of the sunlight is absorbed?
When the sea ice is melted in the summer, 90% of the sunlight is absorbed.
What is “sea ice extent”?
“Sea ice extent” is how far the edge of the ice reaches.
“Sea ice extent” is how far the _____ of the ice reaches.
“Sea ice extent” is how far the edge of the ice reaches.
What has happened to the extent and thickness of summer sea ice in the past 30 years?
In the past 30 years, there has been a dramatic decline in the extent and thickness of summer sea ice.
How much has sea ice extent declined per decade since 1979.
Sea ice extent has declined 13% per decade since 1979.
Sea ice extent has declined 13% per decade since when? .
Sea ice extent has declined 13% per decade since 1979.
What is the main prey of polar bears?
Seals are the main prey of polar bears.
Where do polar bears find it easier to hunt for seals?
Polar bears find it easier to hunt for seals on sea ice.
Why does melting ice make it harder for polar bears to hunt seals?
Melting ice makes it harder for polar bears to both find and then catch seals.
What percentage of polar bear hunts are successful?
Fewer than 2% of polar bear hunts are successful.
What is happening to the health of polar bears? Why?
Polar bears are becoming less healthy as they aren’t catching enough seals.
How is the dropping health levels of polar bears affecting their reproduction?
Dropping health levels means polar bears are having smaller litters and increased cub mortality.
