Question

Sea level rise results from:

1) warming water and eutrophication
2) warming water and melting sea ice
3) eutrophication and melting glaciers
4) eutrophication and melting sea ice
5) warming water and melting glaciers

Answer 1

Sea level rise is primarily caused by the thermal expansion of warming ocean waters and the melting of glaciers. Eutrophication does not directly lead to sea level rise. The correct answer is option 5, which describes these two processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main answer to the question about what causes sea level rise is that it results from both the warming of ocean water leading to its thermal expansion and the melting of terrestrial ice, such as glaciers. Eutrophication is not a direct cause of sea level rise. Warming water expands and thus occupies more space, which leads to an increase in sea level. Additionally, as glaciers and ice sheets melt due to higher global temperatures, the meltwater flows into the oceans and contributes to further sea level rise. This process is a significant concern as it affects coastal ecosystems, human settlements, and contributes to more frequent and severe flooding events.In conclusion, the correct answer to the student's question is warming water and melting glaciers, which corresponds to option 5. This explanation helps clarify that the expansion of water as it warms and the melting of land-based ice directly contribute to the ongoing increase in global sea levels.