Published , Modified Abstract on Antarctic Ice Shelves Experienced Only Minor Changes in Surface Melt Since 1980 Original source
Antarctic Ice Shelves Experienced Only Minor Changes in Surface Melt Since 1980
Antarctica is home to the largest ice sheet on Earth, which contains approximately 90% of the world's ice. The melting of this ice sheet is a major concern for scientists and policymakers alike, as it could lead to significant sea level rise and have devastating consequences for coastal communities around the world. However, a recent study has found that Antarctic ice shelves have experienced only minor changes in surface melt since 1980.
Introduction
The study, published in the journal Nature Climate Change, analyzed satellite data from 1980 to 2018 to track changes in surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves. The researchers found that while there has been an increase in surface melt over the past four decades, it has been relatively small and has not led to significant ice loss.
What are Ice Shelves?
Ice shelves are floating extensions of glaciers that are attached to land but extend out over the ocean. They play an important role in regulating the flow of ice from land into the ocean, as they act as a barrier that slows down the movement of glaciers. When ice shelves melt or break apart, they can allow glaciers to flow more quickly into the ocean, leading to sea level rise.
The Study's Findings
The study found that while there has been an increase in surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves since 1980, it has been relatively small. The researchers estimate that between 1980 and 2018, surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves increased by approximately 1,000 gigatons per year. While this may sound like a large number, it is actually only a small fraction of the total amount of ice on Antarctica.
The study also found that there was significant variability in surface melt across different regions of Antarctica. Some areas experienced more melting than others, but overall the changes were relatively minor.
Why is this Important?
The findings of this study are important because they suggest that Antarctic ice shelves may be more stable than previously thought. While there is still concern about the long-term stability of the Antarctic ice sheet, this study provides some reassurance that the changes we have seen so far are not as dramatic as some had feared.
However, it is important to note that this study only looked at surface melt on ice shelves. It did not take into account other factors that could contribute to ice loss, such as melting from below or calving (when chunks of ice break off from the edge of a glacier). These factors could still lead to significant ice loss in the future.
Conclusion
Overall, the findings of this study provide some reassurance that Antarctic ice shelves have not experienced significant changes in surface melt since 1980. While there is still concern about the long-term stability of the Antarctic ice sheet, this study suggests that the changes we have seen so far are relatively minor.
FAQs
1. What are ice shelves?
Ice shelves are floating extensions of glaciers that are attached to land but extend out over the ocean.
2. What is surface melt?
Surface melt refers to melting of the top layer of snow and ice on a glacier or ice sheet.
3. How much has surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves increased since 1980?
Surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves has increased by approximately 1,000 gigatons per year since 1980.
4. Could other factors contribute to significant ice loss in Antarctica?
Yes, other factors such as melting from below or calving could still lead to significant ice loss in Antarctica.
5. Why is it important to study changes in surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves?
Changes in surface melt on Antarctic ice shelves can provide insight into the stability of the Antarctic ice sheet and its potential impact on sea level rise.
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.