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Rising Sea Levels

Definition

Rising sea levels refer to the gradual increase in average oceanic water levels over time. This phenomenon primarily results from climate change, specifically global warming, causing ice caps and glaciers to melt and thermal expansion of seawater.

Analogy

Picture a glass slowly filling up with water due to a leaky faucet. The rising water level represents rising sea levels caused by melting ice and expanding seawater. Just like how the overflowing water can spill onto nearby surfaces, rising sea levels can impact coastal areas.

Related terms

Coastal Flooding: Coastal flooding occurs when elevated sea levels inundate low-lying coastal areas during storms or high tides. Rising sea levels exacerbate this problem, making coastal communities more vulnerable to flooding events.

Glacial Melting: Glacial melting refers to the process of ice sheets or glaciers thawing due to increased temperatures. Melting glaciers contribute significantly to rising sea levels as melted freshwater flows into oceans.

Ocean Acidification: Ocean acidification is a result of increased carbon dioxide absorption by seawater, leading to lower pH levels. It affects marine ecosystems and coral reefs while also influencing factors that contribute to rising sea levels such as thermal expansion.