Published , Modified Abstract on Ground beneath Thwaites Glacier mapped Original source
Ground beneath Thwaites Glacier mapped
Thwaites Glacier, located in West Antarctica, is one of the largest and fastest-moving glaciers in the world. It is also one of the most important, as it has the potential to significantly contribute to global sea-level rise. Scientists have been studying Thwaites Glacier for years, trying to understand its behavior and predict its future. Recently, a team of researchers has made a significant breakthrough by mapping the ground beneath the glacier.
The Importance of Thwaites Glacier
Thwaites Glacier is currently responsible for about 4% of global sea-level rise. However, if it were to collapse completely, it could raise sea levels by up to 1.2 meters (4 feet). This would have devastating consequences for coastal communities around the world. Therefore, understanding the behavior of Thwaites Glacier is crucial for predicting future sea-level rise and developing strategies to mitigate its effects.
Mapping the Ground Beneath Thwaites Glacier
The ground beneath Thwaites Glacier is complex and difficult to study. However, a team of researchers from the UK and US has managed to map it using a combination of airborne radar and ice-penetrating radar. The researchers flew over the glacier in a specially equipped aircraft, which sent radar signals down through the ice and into the bedrock below.
The resulting data allowed the researchers to create a detailed map of the ground beneath Thwaites Glacier. They found that the glacier sits on top of a complex system of ridges and valleys, which could have a significant impact on its behavior. For example, if warm ocean water were to flow into one of these valleys, it could melt the ice from below and cause the glacier to retreat rapidly.
Implications for Future Sea-Level Rise
The new map of the ground beneath Thwaites Glacier will help scientists better understand how it is likely to behave in the future. This information will be used to improve models of future sea-level rise and develop strategies for mitigating its effects.
One potential strategy is to use artificial snow to slow down the glacier's retreat. This involves pumping seawater onto the surface of the glacier, where it freezes and forms a layer of snow. This snow reflects sunlight back into space, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the glacier and slowing down its melting.
Conclusion
The mapping of the ground beneath Thwaites Glacier is a significant breakthrough in our understanding of this important glacier. It will help scientists better predict its behavior and develop strategies to mitigate its effects on global sea-level rise. However, more research is needed to fully understand the complex system of ridges and valleys beneath the glacier, and to develop effective strategies for slowing down its retreat.
FAQs
1. What is Thwaites Glacier?
Thwaites Glacier is a large and fast-moving glacier located in West Antarctica.
2. Why is Thwaites Glacier important?
Thwaites Glacier has the potential to significantly contribute to global sea-level rise if it were to collapse completely.
3. How was the ground beneath Thwaites Glacier mapped?
The ground beneath Thwaites Glacier was mapped using a combination of airborne radar and ice-penetrating radar.
4. What did researchers find when mapping the ground beneath Thwaites Glacier?
Researchers found that the glacier sits on top of a complex system of ridges and valleys, which could have a significant impact on its behavior.
5. What are some potential strategies for mitigating the effects of Thwaites Glacier on sea-level rise?
One potential strategy is to use artificial snow to slow down the glacier's retreat. Another strategy is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to slow down global warming.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.