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Melting Peaks: Rising Temperatures and the World's Mountains

In Melting Peaks: Rising Temperatures and the World's Mountains, narrator Sir David Attenborough explores the impact of rising temperatures on the world's most iconic mountain ranges — the Alps, the Rockies, the Andes, and the Himalayas. As climate change accelerates, glaciers are melting, snowlines are rising, and ecosystems are shifting. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Planet Earth II, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
Video Details
Location:
The Alps, the Rockies, the Andes, and the Himalayas
Grades:
3-56-8
Program:
Planet Earth II
Time:
1:54
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Life Science

Lesson Express

Q: What impact does rising temperature have on glaciers in the world’s mountain ranges?
A: Rising temperatures cause glaciers to melt, shrinking their size and disrupting the ecosystems that depend on the water they provide.

Q: Why are mountains like the Alps, Rockies, Andes, and Himalayas important to people and wildlife?
A: These mountains provide essential water sources through glaciers, which are vital for drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric power for nearby communities.

Q: How does the melting of glaciers affect ecosystems in mountain regions?
A: The loss of glaciers disrupts the habitats of many species and affects the availability of water for plants, animals, and people, which could lead to changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services.

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