Analyse the data shown in Figure 7 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
Analyse the data shown in Figure 7.
[Graph of ground temperatures cannot be reproduced here due to third-party copyright restrictions.]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 7 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
The bore holes show increasing responsiveness to ambient temperature
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Answer
The data from the bore holes indicates that the temperature readings become more responsive as the proximity to the surface decreases. The bore hole at 0.25m depth demonstrates the most significant variation in temperature, showing a range from more than -14ºC in June 2015 to a high of 26ºC.
Step 2
Temperature changes at different depths
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Answer
As observed, the bore hole at greater depths (1.5m to 19m) exhibits a delayed response in temperature changes when compared to the surface readings. This indicates a relationship where deeper holes do not react as rapidly to ambient temperature changes.
Step 3
Seasonal temperature patterns
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The data suggests that there is a correlation between depth and seasonal temperature ranges. While the surface may experience significant fluctuations throughout the seasons, deeper layers show more stability in temperature, with limited oscillation.
Step 4
Long-term trends in temperature data
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Examining data from September 2008 until now seems to show a warming trend, particularly notable at the upper layers of permafrost. This trend is crucial for understanding climate change impacts in Arctic conditions.
Step 5
Potential anomalies in the data
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It is also essential to note that fluctuations at certain depths (e.g., 1.5m) are less than 0.5ºC, suggesting possible anomalies in data reporting or measurement errors within those specific layers.
Step 6
Reflection on borehole measurements
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The trend in the borehole data emphasizes the importance of continual monitoring, especially at depths which reflect the reality of changing climate conditions and their effects on permafrost stability.
