IELTS READING - Academic Reading - The effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.

The following passage is taken from a scientific journal article about the effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.

The Arctic is a unique and fragile ecosystem that is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. As global temperatures continue to rise, the Arctic is warming at a rate that is twice as fast as the rest of the planet. This has significant implications for the plants and animals that call the Arctic home.

One of the most visible impacts of climate change in the Arctic is the loss of sea ice. As sea ice melts, it exposes more open water, which absorbs more of the sun's energy and further warms the surrounding area. This has led to changes in ocean currents and weather patterns, which in turn affect the distribution and abundance of marine species.

Another impact of climate change in the Arctic is the thawing of permafrost, which is permanently frozen soil that covers much of the region. As permafrost thaws, it releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and methane, which are potent greenhouse gases that contribute to further warming. This feedback loop is a cause for concern among scientists studying the Arctic.

Questions:

1. What is the main topic of this passage?
2. How is the Arctic ecosystem affected by climate change?
3. What is the most visible impact of climate change in the Arctic?
4. What is permafrost?
5. What are the implications of permafrost thawing?

Note: The above sample is just an example and may not reflect the actual difficulty level or format of questions in the IELTS Academic Reading Test.

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