Final answer:
Melting glacial ice contributes to the rise in sea level by adding liquid water to the ocean, as well as due to the expansion of warmer water. This is a result of global warming and the effects of climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
The abundance of glacial ice affects sea level because when glaciers melt, the liquid water contributes to the volume of water in the ocean. As glaciers and polar ice caps melt, they release water that was previously frozen, leading to an increase in sea level worldwide. This is due to the additional volume of water added to the ocean.
As global warming continues, the rise in temperature causes further melting of glaciers and ice caps. Additionally, the warmer water expands in volume, further contributing to the rise in sea level. Overall, the loss of glacial ice due to climate change is a significant factor in the rising sea levels.