# Explain how changes in sea ice coverage in polar regions can create a positive feedback loop that accelerates climate change.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — D4.3 Climate change · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Sea ice has a high albedo / reflects a large proportion of incoming solar radiation back into space
2. As global temperatures rise, sea ice melts / decreases in extent, exposing darker ocean water beneath
3. The exposed ocean surface has a lower albedo / absorbs more solar radiation, causing further warming
4. This additional warming causes further ice melt, reinforcing the original change and forming a positive feedback loop

## Key terms

- [sea ice](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sea-ice)
- [positive feedback](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/positive-feedback)
- [climate change](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/climate-change)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-changes-in-sea-ice-d1905704) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.