Simulation and public communication of ocean response to changing sea ice concentration

Abstract

[author abstract] With only 50% of the general public agreeing with scientists concerning the extent of climate change and its possible causes, there is a need for scientists to help the public understand what is happening on their planet. The Arctic environment is one of the most rapidly changing due to the increased pressures of climate change. Effects of reducing sea ice concentrations in the Arctic that are still largely unknown. With the incorporation of hands on tank demonstrations with simple technology, complicated processes such as albedo were brought to a simplified level. Thermal responses of water temperatures were measured by two participant groups to demonstrate the effects of varying reductions in sea ice concentrations. Changes in participant responses to questions concerning the effects of differing sea ice concentrations in the Arctic before and after the demonstration were also measured.