Which of the following can cause an increase in the density of ocean water?

• A. Increasing the temperature of the water
• B. Decreasing the temperature of the water
• C. Adding freshwater from melting ice
• D. Decreasing the concentration of dissolved salts

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the density of ocean water depends on temperature, salinity (concentration of dissolved salts), and pressure.
2. Recall that increasing temperature generally causes water to expand, which decreases its density, so increasing temperature will not increase density.
3. Recognize that decreasing temperature causes water molecules to move less and pack more closely, increasing the density of ocean water.
4. Consider that adding freshwater from melting ice dilutes the salt concentration, which lowers salinity and thus decreases the density of ocean water.
5. Note that decreasing the concentration of dissolved salts reduces the mass of dissolved substances per volume, which also decreases the density.