Dynamic Planet 3

Which of the following best describes a periglacial landform?

• A landform created by volcanic activity

• A landform shaped by freeze-thaw cycles

• A landform formed by river erosion

• A landform created by tectonic movements

Answer explanation

Periglacial landforms are primarily shaped by freeze-thaw cycles, which cause the ground to expand and contract, leading to features like patterned ground and solifluction. This distinguishes them from volcanic, erosional, or tectonic landforms.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-5

Explain how the presence of sea ice can impact marine ecosystems.

• Sea ice increases water temperature, benefiting coral reefs.

• Sea ice provides a habitat for algae, which supports the food web.

• Sea ice prevents fish from migrating, reducing biodiversity.

• Sea ice blocks sunlight, preventing photosynthesis in marine plants.

Answer explanation

Sea ice creates a unique habitat for algae, which thrive in its presence. These algae are crucial for the marine food web, providing energy and nutrients for various marine organisms, thus supporting overall ecosystem health.

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What is the primary cause of surface meltwater on glaciers?

• Volcanic eruptions

• Solar radiation

• Earthquakes

• Wind erosion

Answer explanation

The primary cause of surface meltwater on glaciers is solar radiation, which heats the glacier's surface, causing ice to melt and form water. Other factors like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and wind erosion do not significantly contribute to this process.

Discuss a strategy for managing surface meltwater on glaciers to prevent flooding.

• Building dams at the glacier's base

• Diverting meltwater into underground reservoirs

• Allowing meltwater to flow naturally without intervention

• Using icebreakers to channel the water

Answer explanation

Diverting meltwater into underground reservoirs effectively manages surface meltwater, reducing the risk of flooding by storing excess water. This proactive approach helps control water flow and minimizes potential damage downstream.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

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What happens to permafrost when it thaws?

• It becomes more stable and supports more vegetation.

• It releases stored carbon dioxide and methane.

• It turns into solid rock.

• It expands and creates new landforms.

Answer explanation

When permafrost thaws, it releases stored carbon dioxide and methane, potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. This process can significantly impact the environment and accelerate global warming.

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Analyze the potential effects of permafrost thaw on global climate change.

• It will have no significant impact on climate change.

• It will decrease atmospheric greenhouse gases.

• It will increase atmospheric greenhouse gases, accelerating warming.

• It will cause a cooling effect by increasing albedo.

Answer explanation

Permafrost thaw releases stored carbon and methane, potent greenhouse gases, into the atmosphere. This process increases atmospheric greenhouse gases, which accelerates global warming, making this the correct choice.

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Identify the pattern of glacial meltwater flow.

• It flows in a straight line from the glacier to the ocean.

• It forms braided streams and channels.

• It evaporates before reaching any water body.

• It flows underground without surfacing.

Answer explanation

Glacial meltwater typically forms braided streams and channels as it flows, due to the varying sediment load and the dynamic nature of the meltwater, rather than flowing in a straight line or evaporating.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Evaluate the role of glacial hydrology in the context of climate change.

• Glacial hydrology has no connection to climate change.

• It contributes to sea level rise and affects freshwater availability.

• It only affects local weather patterns, not global climate.

• It reduces the impact of climate change by cooling the atmosphere.

Answer explanation

Glacial hydrology plays a crucial role in climate change by contributing to sea level rise as glaciers melt and affecting freshwater availability, which is vital for ecosystems and human populations.

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NGSS.HS-ESS2-2

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Which characteristic is typical of a periglacial environment?

• High temperatures and heavy rainfall

• Low temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles

• Dense forests and rich biodiversity

• Frequent volcanic eruptions

Answer explanation

Periglacial environments are characterized by low temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles, which lead to unique landforms and processes. This distinguishes them from warmer, wetter climates or volcanic regions.

How does sea ice influence the Earth's albedo?

• Sea ice decreases albedo, leading to more heat absorption.

• Sea ice increases albedo, reflecting more sunlight.

• Sea ice has no effect on albedo.

• Sea ice absorbs sunlight, reducing albedo.

Answer explanation

Sea ice increases albedo by reflecting more sunlight, which helps to keep the Earth's surface cooler. This is crucial in regulating global temperatures and climate.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-4