Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sea-level rise refers to the long-term increase in the average height of the Earth's oceans, primarily caused by global warming and the melting of glaciers and ice caps.
Related terms
Coastal Erosion: Coastal erosion is the wearing away or removal of land along coastlines by natural processes such as waves, currents, and storms. Sea-level rise can exacerbate coastal erosion by eroding vulnerable shorelines.
Saltwater Intrusion: Saltwater intrusion occurs when saltwater infiltrates freshwater sources such as aquifers or rivers. Rising sea levels can lead to increased saltwater intrusion into coastal areas, affecting drinking water supplies.
Coral bleaching is a phenomenon where coral reefs lose their vibrant colors due to stressors such as warmer ocean temperatures. Sea-level rise can worsen coral bleaching events by causing thermal stress on reefs.