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Scientists have found that Arctic sea ice is melting for longer periods each decade.

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A new study by NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center shows the sea ice has been melting during summer for an additional five days per decade since 1979.

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This lengthening of the melt season is causing widespread weakening of sea ice in the region.

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Part of what's causing the changes is increasing amounts of solar energy that's being absorbed by the sea ice and surrounding waters.

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Rising sea surface temperatures are delaying the start of the growth season, when Arctic sea ice begins to regenerate, by between six to 11 days each decade.

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And changes to sea ice thickness can be seen in some areas at a loss rate of an extra four feet per year.