The statement is false.
Climate change encompasses a wide range of environmental changes, including shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events. While ocean temperature is indeed affected by climate change, stating that climate change is simply a ‘gradual change in ocean temperature’ oversimplifies the issue. Climate change refers to a significant and often rapid alteration in Earth’s climatic patterns over decades or longer. This includes phenomena such as rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather, and alterations in marine ecosystems beyond just temperature changes. Thus, while ocean temperatures are certainly a part of the conversation, they do not encapsulate the entire scope of climate change.