IPCC Arctic report 2014

Question 1

What effect have higher temperatures and evaporation had on arctic ponds?

Answer 1

Higher temperatures and evaporation have resulted in arctic ponds drying up.

Question 2

How will ablation of glacial ice, such as in Greenland, affect freshwater runoff?

Answer 2

Ablation of glacial ice will alter freshwater runoff and create more local floods.

Question 3

What effect will permafrost thawing have on river discharges in winter?

Answer 3

Permafrost thawing will increase thawing rates and decrease permafrost areas, leading to increased river discharges in winter.

Question 4

Over what period did 19 polar Arctic rivers experience a discharge increase of 9.8%?

Answer 4

Between 1977-2007.

Question 4

By what year could the Arctic Ocean be ice-free according to the information?

Answer 4

The Arctic Ocean could be ice-free by 2037.

Question 5

Why will earlier annual peak discharges occur in the Russian Arctic?

Answer 5

Earlier annual peak discharges will occur due to higher temperatures and an earlier spring thaw.

Question 6

How will the runoff of fresh cold water alter marine ecosystems?

Answer 6

The runoff of fresh cold water will alter marine ecosystems and food chains dependent on saline waters.

Question 7

By what year are areas outside the Arctic Ocean predicted to be affected by alterations in marine ecosystems?

Answer 7

By 2100