Chapter 29, Problem 18TE

To determine

The ways to lower the sea level and the effects this have on existing life form.

Answer to Problem 18TE

The sea level can be lowered by reducing greenhouse emissions and this lowering in sea level might lead to loss of habitat of organisms.

Explanation of Solution

The increasing global temperature is a cause for sea-level rise. The sea level can be lowered if the rise in temperature is controlled.

The emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere results in global warming and a global increase in temperature. So, reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions can help in the reduction of global temperature. Controlling the burning of wood and other petroleum products lead to lowering sea levels.

If the sea level is lowered, the shallow region between the land and the open ocean gets exposed. It leads to the loss of habitats of organisms living in these shallow regions. New land habitats will be formed, leading to the evolution of more terrestrial organisms.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the sea level can be lowered by reducing greenhouse emissions and this lowering in sea level might lead to loss of habitat of organisms.