Scenario 2: How might decreased atmospheric C02 affect polar ice melt below the glacier? (low C02, no berm) This modelis a revision of and addition to your Lesson 6 model. Hypothesis: If the amount of carbon dioxide in the system decreases, then... ...because:

If the amount of carbon dioxide in the system decreases, then the rate of polar ice melt below the glacier might decrease. This is because:

1. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This trapped heat contributes to global warming, which in turn leads to the melting of polar ice.

2. If the amount of CO2 decreases, less heat would be trapped in the atmosphere. This could potentially lead to a decrease in global warming.

3. With less global warming, the rate of polar ice melt might decrease. This is because the temperature of the atmosphere plays a significant role in the melting of polar ice.

4. However, it's important to note that this is a simplified explanation. The relationship between atmospheric CO2, global warming, and polar ice melt is complex and influenced by many factors. For example, even if atmospheric CO2 decreases, other greenhouse gases could still contribute to global warming. Additionally, changes in ocean currents, wind patterns, and other factors can also affect the rate of polar ice melt.

5. Therefore, while a decrease in atmospheric CO2 could potentially lead to a decrease in polar ice melt, it's not guaranteed. More research is needed to fully understand this relationship.