Question

could albedo be responsible for the observed temperature increase? youve now investigated several scenarios regarding earths albedo. is it likely, then, that a change in earths albedo is causing the temperature increase? no. earths albedo is increasing due to paving and asphalt projects worldwide. yes. earths albedo is decreasing due to loss of snow and ice. this decrease in albedo will result in more energy being absorbed and temperature increasing. yes. earths albedo is in a low point in its natural cycle. the decrease in albedo means more energy is absorbed by earth making it hotter. no. earths albedo is decreasing because snow and ice are melting, but it is the temperature increase causing the melt, not the other way around.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Paving/asphalt increase albedo? No, they are dark, so albedo would decrease, and this option claims albedo is increasing. Eliminate.
• Option 2: Albedo decreases due to snow/ice loss. But does this cause temperature increase? Or is it the other way? The key is causation.
• Option 3: "Natural cycle" is not the primary driver of current warming (human - induced). Eliminate.
• Option 4: Correct. Current warming (from greenhouse gases) causes snow/ice melt, which decreases albedo. So temperature increase causes albedo change, not the reverse.
• Option 5: Albedo can change (e.g., ice melt, deforestation). Eliminate.

Answer:

D. No. Earth’s albedo is decreasing because snow and ice are melting, but it is the temperature increase causing the melt, not the other way around.