Complete the following sentence: Thermal expansion of the ocean can lead to  in coastal areas.

Thermal expansion of the ocean can lead to sea level rise in coastal areas. When water is heated, it expands. This phenomenon, known as thermal expansion, occurs because the molecules in water move faster and spread apart as they absorb heat. As global temperatures increase due to climate change, ocean waters warm, causing them to occupy more volume. Consequently, this expansion contributes to higher sea levels. The rising sea levels can result in numerous environmental issues in coastal areas, including increased flooding, erosion of shorelines, loss of habitat, and saline intrusion into freshwater resources. These changes can disrupt ecosystems, affect human settlements, and challenge infrastructure, making effective adaptation strategies essential for vulnerable coastal communities.