Skip to main content

The secret to rising sea levels

531,029 Views

6,331 Questions Answered

Best of Web

Let’s Begin…

Of the many environmental impacts imposed by climate change, rising sea levels are often discussed. The cause of this may not be as obvious as it seems. While a portion of the increase comes from the likes of melting glaciers, another more surprising phenomenon helps to explain the increase in water volume: Thermal Expansion. Check out AsapSCIENCE's video explaining this natural phenomenon.

Use a particle diagram to visually show what happens to particles in water when the water temperature increases. How does this diagram relate to the thermal expansion of the Earth's oceans?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Best of Web

TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.

Meet The Creators

More from Our Changing Climate