Lesson C2 - Thermal expansion of the ocean and sea level rise
MAIN SUBJECTS
Natural sciences
DURATION
Preparation: 15min
Activity: 1h–1h30
SUMMARY
The students carry out an experiment to ascertain how the thermal expansion of seawater contributes to sea level rise. A documentary analysis allows them to discuss the different impacts of sea level rise (on ecosystems and human communities).
KEY IDEAS
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As the temperature of the atmosphere rises, so does the temperature of the ocean.
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The global mean sea level has already risen around 15 cm since 1900. According to different scenarios, it will rise further – by between 25 cm and over 1 m by 2100.
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Water, like all liquids, expands in volume when heated. This is called thermal expansion, and is one cause of sea level rise.
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Due to sea level rise, coastal regions will increasingly be flooded, leading to coastal erosion.
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In 2010, about 30 % of the global population lived less than 100 km from the ocean.
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Coastal ecosystems are at risk of being altered or destroyed.
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Saltwater may seep into groundwater.
INQUIRY METHOD
Experimentation and documentary analysis

Multimedia activity:
Click on the animation to discover it 👇
