Final answer:
True, melting ice on land and thermal expansion of water contribute significantly to sea level rise. Melting ice adds more water to oceans, while thermal expansion increases the volume of the existing water as it warms. Both factors are instrumental in the observed increase in sea levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that melting ice on land and thermal expansion of water are two of the most important factors causing sea level rise is true. As the global climate changes, temperatures increase, leading to the melting of ice on land, such as glaciers and ice sheets. This melted ice adds more water to the world's oceans, contributing to the rising sea levels. Additionally, the thermal expansion of water is a critical factor.
Satellite measurements since 1993 show a rise of about 3.6 mm per year in sea levels, with roughly 2.4 mm/yr contributed by melting ice and about 1.2 mm/yr from thermal expansion. These findings indicate that both factors play significant roles in the ongoing changes to our planet’s sea levels.
Local and regional factors, such as land elevation changes due to subsidence or uplift, local currents, and proximity to melting ice sheets, can also affect the exact impact of rising sea levels on specific coastlines. With an expected increase in global sea levels, regions around the world will need to prepare for the potential impacts, which include habitat loss, infrastructure damage, and increased flooding.