Final answer:
Polar amplification refers to the d.greater magnitude of temperature changes at higher latitudes, where climatic changes are more pronounced and can significantly affect ecosystems and species distributions.
Step-by-step explanation:
During changing climatic conditions, temperature variations depend on latitude. Polar amplification is the increase in magnitude of temperature change with increasing latitude. This phenomenon means that changes in Earth's climate, such as global warming, are most pronounced in polar regions. Polar amplification occurs because of several feedback loops that are particularly strong in these areas, including the loss of sea ice which leads to less solar radiation being reflected back into space, and darker water and land surfaces absorbing more heat.
Climactic shifts affect not only temperature but other ecological factors such as precipitation and pH levels in aquatic ecosystems. These alterations can lead to significant changes in species distribution, such as the sugar maple moving north into Canada or the Baltimore oriole no longer being found in its namesake city. The loss of polar ice is also a serious concern, with the accelerated warming in the Arctic posing a threat to species like the polar bear that relies on sea ice for hunting.
Summary of Points: