Author Question: Middle-latitude deserts and steppes are more numerous and extensive in the Northern Hemisphere than ... (Read 137 times)

jparksx · **on:** Jul 15, 2018

Middle-latitude deserts and steppes are more numerous and extensive in the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere.

Indicate whether this statement is true or false.

Question 2

Explain how the presence of glaciers on the planet affects the albedo of the land surface. How will the albedo change as glaciers melt? What will this mean for the climate?

What will be an ideal response?

Toya9913 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 15, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: TRUE

Answer to Question 2

Answer: Glacial ice is very reflective, which means that it will have a high albedo. Since a high albedo will result in a great deal of solar radiation being reflected back out into space, temperatures stay cool. As glacial ice melts, the albedo gets lower and the ground absorbs more solar radiation. The rocks stay warmer for longer, and the result is a warmer climate. This process will start a positive feedback loop for warming climates.