Which of the following accurately relates the emergent properties of water to the effects of global warming in the Arctic?

• A. Although it is feared that sea ice around Alaska and northern Canada may be greatly reduced by atmospheric warming, the high specific heat of water has so far buffered these sea ice communities from significant impacts.
• B. An increase in water temperature due to global warming will cause the sea ice formed in the Arctic to be denser and less buoyant.
• C. Although a significant increase of air temperature has occurred in the Arctic over the past 50 years, the specific heat of water has thus far buffered against any significant increases in the Arctic ocean temperatures.
• D. Ice floats because it is less dense than liquid water; floating ice insulates water below and provides a habitat for some species. The significant increase in Arctic air temperature over the past 50 years is causing a reduction in sea ice, compromising these beneficial effects of sea ice.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of emergent properties of water, particularly its high specific heat and density differences between ice and liquid water.
2. Recognize that the high specific heat of water means it can absorb a lot of heat without a significant change in temperature, which helps buffer ocean temperatures against rapid changes.
3. Identify that ice is less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float. This floating ice acts as an insulator for the water below and provides a habitat for various species.
4. Consider the impact of global warming, specifically the increase in air temperature in the Arctic, which leads to a reduction in sea ice.
5. Connect the reduction in sea ice due to increased air temperatures with the loss of insulation and habitat, highlighting the compromise of beneficial effects of sea ice in the Arctic ecosystem.