Thinning ice altering ecosystems: National Science Foundation

The video discusses the shrinking cryosphere, focusing on ice and snow-covered areas of Earth. It highlights the impact of rising temperatures in Arctic and boreal regions, leading to permafrost reduction and increased sediment in water bodies, affecting organisms. Changes in ice thickness and duration disrupt aquatic life cycles. Reduced snowfall is linked to more frequent wildfires and negatively impacts cities, agriculture, and other human activities reliant on snow and ice for water.

What is the cryosphere?

• A forested area with diverse wildlife

• A region with constant rainfall

• A part of the Earth's surface covered by ice or snow

• A desert area with high temperatures

How does the reduction of permafrost affect rivers and streams?

• It decreases the water flow

• It increases sediment levels

• It purifies the water

• It creates new water channels

What is one consequence of decreased ice thickness?

• Improved aquatic life cycles

• Increased agricultural productivity

• Enhanced urban development

• Disruption of aquatic life cycles

What has the reduction of snowfall been linked to?

• Increase in wildfire frequency

• Reduction in agricultural yield

• Decrease in wildfire frequency

• Stability in climate patterns

How does less snow affect human activities?

• It has no significant effect

• It promotes tourism

• It negatively impacts agriculture and cities

• It enhances water availability