The threat of climate change continues to loom over us. Take for instance, Greenland's ongoing ice melt that researchers have focused their energies on to determine its possible causes.
A new study is looking at arctic amplification, a phenomena that may possibly be causing Greenland's warmest winter. Using recorded effects of varying temperatures on Greenland, the researchers were able to link arctic amplification as the cause of the unusual climate being experienced by Greenland recently (via The Christian Science Monitor).
As per Climate Hotmap, arctic amplification occurs when the observed temperature in the Arctic is greater than the rest of the Northern Hemisphere. It has been occuring on recent decades with the temperature in the Arctic rising dramatically, almost twice as the world's average--melting more ice than ever.
Arctic amplification, according to Skeptical Science, is caused by the following: changes in cloud cover, increases in atmospheric water vapour, more atmospheric heat transport from lower latitudes and declining sea ice. A 2010 study cites sea ice decline as the primary cause of Arctic amplification. This means that the surface of the sea floor is getting warmer and warmer.
Christian Science Monitor further explains the link between Arctic amplification and Greenland's melting of ice. Because of the declining sea ice, uncovered dark areas of the ocean absorb more radiation coming from the sun. As a result of the heat absorption, the sea warming continues to threaten the survival of ice in Greenland.
Warmer water also intesifies speed and consistency of the jet stream. The result is a hotter air on the northernmost areas (via Christian Science Monitor).
The researchers from Columbia University did not see the need to further confirm if Arctic amplification is really the cause of Greenland's ongoing ice melting. Instead, they focused on Arctic amplification itself that would eventually lead to global increase in temperature and further ice melting (via Christian Science Monitor).
If ice continues to melt in Greenland, the world's largest ice sheet, global water levels would be increased by more than 20 feet. This is a serious problem that more should be aware of and in our own little ways, we can choose to be part of the solution by fighting global warming. We can join volunteer groups, plant more trees, offer vehicles for car pooling, conserve water and throw our garbage properly.
Before reading this article, were you aware of arctic amplification and ice melting in Greenland? What do you think can you do to help the environment survive from global warming? Sound off your comments below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.
