In 2009, a study was done on the impact of sea level risein the mid-Atlantic states.20

Chapter 2, Problem 68

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In 2009, a study was done on the impact of sea level risein the mid-Atlantic states.20 Let a(t) be the depth of thesea in millimeters (mm) at a typical point on the AtlanticCoast, and let m(t) be the depth of the sea in mm at atypical point on the Gulf of Mexico, with time t in yearssince data collection started.(a) The study reports Sea level is rising and there is evidencethat the rate is accelerating. What does thisstatement tell us about a(t) and m(t)?(b) The study also reports The Atlantic Coast and theGulf of Mexico experience higher rates of sea-levelrise (2 to 4 mm per year and 2 to 10 mm per year, respectively)than the current global average (1.7 mmper year). What does this tell us about a(t) andm(t)?(c) Assume the rate at which the sea level rises on theAtlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico are constantfor a century and within the ranges given in the report.(i) What is the largest amount the sea could riseon the Atlantic Coast during a century? Youranswer should be a range of values.(ii) What is the shortest amount of time in whichthe sea level in the Gulf of Mexico could rise 1meter?