This learning activity uses data acquired by the TOPEX/Poseidon altimeter, a joint project of NASA and the French Space Agency, to investigate the relationship between the topography of a sea-floor feature and the topography of the overlying sea surface.

This activity invites students to model and observe the effect of melting ice sheets (from land) on sea level and the difference between the effect of melting sea-ice to that of melting land ice on sea level.

This lesson introduces the Earth system science spheres through model making and discussion.

Students collect and analyze temperature data to explore what governs how much energy is reflected. 

Examine (daytime) surface temperature and solar radiation received at locations found near similar latitudes using NASA Data.

This activity is one of a series in the collection, The Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change activities.