Answer:
Local tide measurements and global satellite data can both provide valuable information about sea level changes, but they may not always directly support or contradict each other. Here's why:
Local Tide Measurements:
Local tide measurements are taken at specific coastal locations using tide gauges. These measurements provide information about the water level relative to the land at a specific location. Tide gauges record tidal variations caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, as well as local factors like winds, atmospheric pressure, and ocean currents.
Global Satellite Data:
Global satellite data, often derived from satellite altimeters, provide a broader perspective of sea level changes on a global scale. These satellites measure the distance between the satellite and the ocean surface, allowing for the calculation of sea surface heights. This data is used to monitor changes in sea level due to factors like thermal expansion of seawater and the melting of glaciers and ice sheets.
Relationship Between the Two:
Local tide measurements and global satellite data serve different purposes. Local tide measurements are valuable for understanding short-term variations and the effects of local factors. They are particularly relevant for coastal planning, navigation, and understanding local tidal patterns.
Global satellite data, on the other hand, provide a comprehensive view of sea level changes on a global scale, including long-term trends and the contribution of various factors to rising sea levels.
Support or Contradiction:
In general, these two types of data do not necessarily contradict each other, as they capture different aspects of sea level changes. However, discrepancies can arise due to factors like vertical land movement (subsidence or uplift) at specific coastal locations, which can affect local tide gauge measurements. Additionally, changes in ocean circulation and atmospheric conditions can lead to differences between local and global sea level trends.
Step-by-step explanation: