Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the name of the active volcano found on Ross Island in Antarctica?
What is the name of the active volcano found on Ross Island in Antarctica?
- Mount Erebus (correct)
- Mount Vesuvius
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Mount Fuji
Approximately how old is Mount Erebus?
Approximately how old is Mount Erebus?
- Ten million years
- 100,000 years
- 10,000 years
- One million years (correct)
What is the primary purpose of the Antarctic Treaty of 1961?
What is the primary purpose of the Antarctic Treaty of 1961?
- To allow countries to claim parts of Antarctica for resource extraction.
- To promote tourism in Antarctica.
- To establish permanent human settlements in Antarctica.
- To protect Antarctica for peaceful research and prevent military activities. (correct)
Which of the following describes Antarctica's status regarding human habitation?
Which of the following describes Antarctica's status regarding human habitation?
What adaptation helps penguins survive in Antarctica's cold climate?
What adaptation helps penguins survive in Antarctica's cold climate?
What date is observed as World Penguin Day?
What date is observed as World Penguin Day?
What is the approximate average annual temperature in Antarctica?
What is the approximate average annual temperature in Antarctica?
Which explorer is credited with being the first to reach the South Pole?
Which explorer is credited with being the first to reach the South Pole?
In what hemisphere is Antarctica located?
In what hemisphere is Antarctica located?
What type of precipitation mainly occurs in Antarctica?
What type of precipitation mainly occurs in Antarctica?
Which of these oceans does NOT surround Antarctica?
Which of these oceans does NOT surround Antarctica?
What is the primary purpose of research stations in Antarctica?
What is the primary purpose of research stations in Antarctica?
What is the name given to the waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans beyond the Antarctic Circle?
What is the name given to the waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans beyond the Antarctic Circle?
Under the Antarctic Treaty, what is Antarctica primarily designated for?
Under the Antarctic Treaty, what is Antarctica primarily designated for?
Which part of Antarctica constitutes only 5% of the continent's total surface area?
Which part of Antarctica constitutes only 5% of the continent's total surface area?
What causes the low rainfall in Antarctica?
What causes the low rainfall in Antarctica?
What is a characteristic of the Antarctic Ice Sheet?
What is a characteristic of the Antarctic Ice Sheet?
Which of the following describes East Antarctica?
Which of the following describes East Antarctica?
Which mountain range separates East and West Antarctica?
Which mountain range separates East and West Antarctica?
What is a key feature of West Antarctica?
What is a key feature of West Antarctica?
What is the name of the longest river in Antarctica?
What is the name of the longest river in Antarctica?
Why is Antarctica so cold?
Why is Antarctica so cold?
What does the term 'albedo' refer to in the context of Antarctica?
What does the term 'albedo' refer to in the context of Antarctica?
Which of these seas surrounds Antarctica?
Which of these seas surrounds Antarctica?
What are the sharp, wave-like grooves or ridges formed by strong winds on the ice plateau of East Antarctica called?
What are the sharp, wave-like grooves or ridges formed by strong winds on the ice plateau of East Antarctica called?
Considering the Antarctic Treaty of 1961's aims, which activity would be permitted?
Considering the Antarctic Treaty of 1961's aims, which activity would be permitted?
How might the discovery of Mount Erebus's volcanic ash in areas distant from the volcano impact scientific understanding of Antarctica?
How might the discovery of Mount Erebus's volcanic ash in areas distant from the volcano impact scientific understanding of Antarctica?
Given the physical adaptations of penguins, what ecological advantage do solid bones provide in their Antarctic habitat?
Given the physical adaptations of penguins, what ecological advantage do solid bones provide in their Antarctic habitat?
If a new scientific study revealed a previously unknown species of moss thriving in an area of Antarctica with geothermal activity beneath the ice, what would be a logical conclusion?
If a new scientific study revealed a previously unknown species of moss thriving in an area of Antarctica with geothermal activity beneath the ice, what would be a logical conclusion?
Considering Antarctica's designation as a 'Human Void Zone', what implication does this have for environmental conservation efforts?
Considering Antarctica's designation as a 'Human Void Zone', what implication does this have for environmental conservation efforts?
Given that India maintains multiple research stations in Antarctica, what strategic advantage does this offer in terms of scientific exploration?
Given that India maintains multiple research stations in Antarctica, what strategic advantage does this offer in terms of scientific exploration?
Why is Antarctica considered a desert, despite being covered in ice?
Why is Antarctica considered a desert, despite being covered in ice?
What is the key factor that differentiates the climate of the edges of Antarctica from its interior?
What is the key factor that differentiates the climate of the edges of Antarctica from its interior?
How does the high altitude of the Antarctic landmass contribute to its low temperatures?
How does the high altitude of the Antarctic landmass contribute to its low temperatures?
What evidence supports the theory that Tasmania and Antarctica were once part of the same landmass?
What evidence supports the theory that Tasmania and Antarctica were once part of the same landmass?
Why are the dry valleys, located within the Transantarctic Mountains, significant?
Why are the dry valleys, located within the Transantarctic Mountains, significant?
What effect does Antarctica's high albedo have on its climate?
What effect does Antarctica's high albedo have on its climate?
How do ice shelves contribute to the overall size of the Antarctic Ice Sheet?
How do ice shelves contribute to the overall size of the Antarctic Ice Sheet?
What is suggested by presence of sub-glacial lakes in Antarctica, such as Lake Vostok?
What is suggested by presence of sub-glacial lakes in Antarctica, such as Lake Vostok?
How do katabatic winds contribute to the dryness of Antarctica?
How do katabatic winds contribute to the dryness of Antarctica?
What is the significance of the Antarctic Peninsula being the warmest part of Antarctica?
What is the significance of the Antarctic Peninsula being the warmest part of Antarctica?
Which of these factors contributes most to Antarctica's extremely dry climate?
Which of these factors contributes most to Antarctica's extremely dry climate?
How does the Antarctic Treaty System ensure that Antarctica remains a zone of peace?
How does the Antarctic Treaty System ensure that Antarctica remains a zone of peace?
Why is temperature data predominantly collected at ground level in Antarctica?
Why is temperature data predominantly collected at ground level in Antarctica?
How does the geography of Antarctica influence its climate differently in East and West Antarctica?
How does the geography of Antarctica influence its climate differently in East and West Antarctica?
What is the most significant implication of the absence of a native population in Antarctica?
What is the most significant implication of the absence of a native population in Antarctica?
Which option describes the combined impact of the Southern Ocean and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current on Antarctica?
Which option describes the combined impact of the Southern Ocean and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current on Antarctica?
Why is measuring precipitation in Antarctica challenging, and how does this affect climate models?
Why is measuring precipitation in Antarctica challenging, and how does this affect climate models?
How does the distribution of research stations across Antarctica contribute to our understanding of the continent?
How does the distribution of research stations across Antarctica contribute to our understanding of the continent?
Given its unique status, what challenges does Antarctica face in terms of environmental protection and resource management?
Given its unique status, what challenges does Antarctica face in terms of environmental protection and resource management?
Mount Erebus is located on the east side of Antarctica.
Mount Erebus is located on the east side of Antarctica.
Mount Erebus was created by volcanic eruptions through the Ross Ice Shelf.
Mount Erebus was created by volcanic eruptions through the Ross Ice Shelf.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 allows for military activity in Antarctica.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 allows for military activity in Antarctica.
Less than 50% of Antarctica is covered by a thick sheet of ice.
Less than 50% of Antarctica is covered by a thick sheet of ice.
Humans live permanently throughout Antarctica.
Humans live permanently throughout Antarctica.
Penguins do not have predators that can live in the brutally cold climate of Antarctica.
Penguins do not have predators that can live in the brutally cold climate of Antarctica.
Antarctica is the largest continent on Earth.
Antarctica is the largest continent on Earth.
The explorer Roald Amundsen was the first person to reach the South Pole.
The explorer Roald Amundsen was the first person to reach the South Pole.
The continent of Antarctica is located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere.
The continent of Antarctica is located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere.
The waters surrounding Antarctica are known as the Southern Ocean.
The waters surrounding Antarctica are known as the Southern Ocean.
West Antarctica constitutes 55 per cent of the continent's total surface area.
West Antarctica constitutes 55 per cent of the continent's total surface area.
The Antarctic Treaty specifies that Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only.
The Antarctic Treaty specifies that Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only.
The coldest land temperataure recorded on Earth, -89.2°C, was recorded in Australia.
The coldest land temperataure recorded on Earth, -89.2°C, was recorded in Australia.
Antarctica is home to animals such as penguins and seals that are suited to very cold climates.
Antarctica is home to animals such as penguins and seals that are suited to very cold climates.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is around 50°C.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is around 50°C.
Antarctica experiences strong winds up to 200 miles per hour.
Antarctica experiences strong winds up to 200 miles per hour.
Katabatic winds contribute to the low rainfall in Antarctica.
Katabatic winds contribute to the low rainfall in Antarctica.
The Dry Valleys of Antarctica have not received rain for approximately 2 million years.
The Dry Valleys of Antarctica have not received rain for approximately 2 million years.
The longest river in Antarctica, the Onyx River, is about 400 kilometers long.
The longest river in Antarctica, the Onyx River, is about 400 kilometers long.
The North and South Poles receive approximately the same amount of sunlight annually.
The North and South Poles receive approximately the same amount of sunlight annually.
A high albedo means that a surface absorbs most of the sunlight it receives.
A high albedo means that a surface absorbs most of the sunlight it receives.
East Antarctica is also known as Lesser Antarctica.
East Antarctica is also known as Lesser Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula is the part of Antarctica closest to Australia.
The Antarctic Peninsula is the part of Antarctica closest to Australia.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet is smallest in the summer and largest in the winter.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet is smallest in the summer and largest in the winter.
Lake Baikal is the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica.
Lake Baikal is the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica.
Antarctica's territorial claims by various nations are fully enforced under international law.
Antarctica's territorial claims by various nations are fully enforced under international law.
The lowest land temperature ever recorded on Earth, at -89.2°C, was recorded at ground level at the Soviet Vostok Station in Antarctica in 1973.
The lowest land temperature ever recorded on Earth, at -89.2°C, was recorded at ground level at the Soviet Vostok Station in Antarctica in 1973.
East Antarctica is smaller in surface area compared to West Antarctica.
East Antarctica is smaller in surface area compared to West Antarctica.
The Antarctic Treaty, initially signed in 1961, exclusively permits military activities on the continent for national defense purposes.
The Antarctic Treaty, initially signed in 1961, exclusively permits military activities on the continent for national defense purposes.
The average annual temperature for the entire continent of Antarctica remains consistently above -30°C.
The average annual temperature for the entire continent of Antarctica remains consistently above -30°C.
Roald Amundsen was the first explorer to successfully reach the South Pole in 1911.
Roald Amundsen was the first explorer to successfully reach the South Pole in 1911.
Antarctica is located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere, surrounding the North Pole, and lies completely within the Antarctic Circle.
Antarctica is located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere, surrounding the North Pole, and lies completely within the Antarctic Circle.
The Southern Ocean consists of the waters surrounding Antarctica, including the southernmost portions of the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean.
The Southern Ocean consists of the waters surrounding Antarctica, including the southernmost portions of the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean.
Precipitation levels are uniform across Antarctica, with an average of 200 millimetres of snowfall annually, regardless of the region.
Precipitation levels are uniform across Antarctica, with an average of 200 millimetres of snowfall annually, regardless of the region.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 permits countries to use the area south of 60°S latitude for military exercises, as long as they don't involve nuclear weapons.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 permits countries to use the area south of 60°S latitude for military exercises, as long as they don't involve nuclear weapons.
Mount Erebus is characterized by explosive eruptions that initially breached the 70 meters thick Ross Ice Shelf during its formation.
Mount Erebus is characterized by explosive eruptions that initially breached the 70 meters thick Ross Ice Shelf during its formation.
The presence of ash from Mount Erebus found in distant parts of Antarctica indicates consistently large, frequent eruptions rather than occasional events.
The presence of ash from Mount Erebus found in distant parts of Antarctica indicates consistently large, frequent eruptions rather than occasional events.
Penguins evolved approximately 40 to 50 million years ago and developed hollow bones to aid in swimming and diving in Antarctic waters.
Penguins evolved approximately 40 to 50 million years ago and developed hollow bones to aid in swimming and diving in Antarctic waters.
Greater Antarctica's age, determined from tests on the Precambrian Shield, is estimated to be more than 570 million years, showcasing the continent's ancient geological history.
Greater Antarctica's age, determined from tests on the Precambrian Shield, is estimated to be more than 570 million years, showcasing the continent's ancient geological history.
Due to the extreme cold and dry climate, the Antarctic continent is entirely barren, with no plant life capable of surviving in its harsh conditions.
Due to the extreme cold and dry climate, the Antarctic continent is entirely barren, with no plant life capable of surviving in its harsh conditions.
Katabatic winds contribute to the low rainfall in Antarctica by transporting moisture-laden air masses from the ocean inland.
Katabatic winds contribute to the low rainfall in Antarctica by transporting moisture-laden air masses from the ocean inland.
The Arctic and Antarctic regions receive approximately the same amount of sunlight annually, but the South Pole experiences significantly warmer temperatures due to ocean currents.
The Arctic and Antarctic regions receive approximately the same amount of sunlight annually, but the South Pole experiences significantly warmer temperatures due to ocean currents.
A high albedo, which signifies a surface's ability to reflect sunlight, causes Antarctica to absorb a larger proportion of the sun's energy, leading to surface warming.
A high albedo, which signifies a surface's ability to reflect sunlight, causes Antarctica to absorb a larger proportion of the sun's energy, leading to surface warming.
The temperature in Antarctica increases by approximately 1°C for every 100 meters increase in altitude, because of the greenhouse effect.
The temperature in Antarctica increases by approximately 1°C for every 100 meters increase in altitude, because of the greenhouse effect.
East Antarctica is characterized by its relatively young geological formations and high volcanic activity, distinguishing it from the more stable West Antarctica.
East Antarctica is characterized by its relatively young geological formations and high volcanic activity, distinguishing it from the more stable West Antarctica.
The Antarctic Peninsula, known for being the coldest part of the continent, attracts fewer cruise ships due to its harsh and inaccessible environment.
The Antarctic Peninsula, known for being the coldest part of the continent, attracts fewer cruise ships due to its harsh and inaccessible environment.
The combined area of the Antarctic Ice Sheet is approximately twice the size of Russia, making it the largest single mass of ice on Earth.
The combined area of the Antarctic Ice Sheet is approximately twice the size of Russia, making it the largest single mass of ice on Earth.
Lake Vostok, located 4 km below the Antarctic ice sheet, is well-suited for recreational boating activities due to its calm waters and accessibility.
Lake Vostok, located 4 km below the Antarctic ice sheet, is well-suited for recreational boating activities due to its calm waters and accessibility.
The Transantarctic Mountains, shorter than the European Alps, play a minimal role in influencing the ice dynamics of Antarctica.
The Transantarctic Mountains, shorter than the European Alps, play a minimal role in influencing the ice dynamics of Antarctica.
Vinson Massif, while relatively easy to climb, faces accessibility challenges due to its isolation and the prevalence of moderate weather conditions.
Vinson Massif, while relatively easy to climb, faces accessibility challenges due to its isolation and the prevalence of moderate weather conditions.
Mount ______ is located on Ross Island in the Ross Sea in West Antarctica.
Mount ______ is located on Ross Island in the Ross Sea in West Antarctica.
Mount Erebus has a permanent lake of ______ in its crater.
Mount Erebus has a permanent lake of ______ in its crater.
The Antarctic Treaty was established in ______.
The Antarctic Treaty was established in ______.
Antarctica is also known as a Human ______ Zone due to the lack of permanent human settlement.
Antarctica is also known as a Human ______ Zone due to the lack of permanent human settlement.
______ are primary inhabitants of Antarctica, well-adapted to the cold climate.
______ are primary inhabitants of Antarctica, well-adapted to the cold climate.
About 98 per cent of Antarctica is covered by a thick sheet of ______.
About 98 per cent of Antarctica is covered by a thick sheet of ______.
The longest river in Antarctica is the ______ River.
The longest river in Antarctica is the ______ River.
Both the Arctic and Antarctic regions are cold because they don't get any direct ______.
Both the Arctic and Antarctic regions are cold because they don't get any direct ______.
The surface of Antarctica has a high ______, which reflects sunlight back into space.
The surface of Antarctica has a high ______, which reflects sunlight back into space.
East Antarctica is also known as Greater ______.
East Antarctica is also known as Greater ______.
The ______ is the fifth largest continent.
The ______ is the fifth largest continent.
West Antarctica is also known as Lesser ______ because it is smaller than East Antarctica.
West Antarctica is also known as Lesser ______ because it is smaller than East Antarctica.
There are no permanent human ______ in Antarctica.
There are no permanent human ______ in Antarctica.
Many cruise ships visit the Antarctic ______, which is the warmest part of Antarctica.
Many cruise ships visit the Antarctic ______, which is the warmest part of Antarctica.
The coldest land temperature recorded on Earth was in Antarctica at -89.2°______.
The coldest land temperature recorded on Earth was in Antarctica at -89.2°______.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet extends to almost 14 million square ______.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet extends to almost 14 million square ______.
Lake ______ is the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica.
Lake ______ is the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica.
[Blank] was the first person to reach the South Pole.
[Blank] was the first person to reach the South Pole.
The ______ Mountains separate East Antarctica from West Antarctica.
The ______ Mountains separate East Antarctica from West Antarctica.
Antarctica is located entirely in the ______ Hemisphere.
Antarctica is located entirely in the ______ Hemisphere.
The ______ Treaty specifies that 'Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only'.
The ______ Treaty specifies that 'Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only'.
[Blank] Massif is the highest point in Antarctica.
[Blank] Massif is the highest point in Antarctica.
Antarctica has no native ______ or government.
Antarctica has no native ______ or government.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is around -50°______.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is around -50°______.
Precipitation in Antarctica always falls as ______.
Precipitation in Antarctica always falls as ______.
Mount Erebus, located on Ross Island in West Antarctica, was formed by volcanic eruptions through the 700 meters thick ______ Ice Shelf.
Mount Erebus, located on Ross Island in West Antarctica, was formed by volcanic eruptions through the 700 meters thick ______ Ice Shelf.
The flat top of Mount Erebus was created when the summit buckled, forming a hole, that then filled with lava creating a ______ of molten lava.
The flat top of Mount Erebus was created when the summit buckled, forming a hole, that then filled with lava creating a ______ of molten lava.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 designates the area south of 60°S latitude cannot be used for military purposes or radioactive waste disposal, but only for peaceful ______.
The Antarctic Treaty of 1961 designates the area south of 60°S latitude cannot be used for military purposes or radioactive waste disposal, but only for peaceful ______.
Antarctica is also known as a Human ______ Zone, primarily because permanent human settlements are absent due to the harsh climate and environmental conditions.
Antarctica is also known as a Human ______ Zone, primarily because permanent human settlements are absent due to the harsh climate and environmental conditions.
Penguins' wings have evolved over the centuries to resemble ______ or paddles, aiding their swimming and diving abilities in the cold Antarctic waters.
Penguins' wings have evolved over the centuries to resemble ______ or paddles, aiding their swimming and diving abilities in the cold Antarctic waters.
India has established three research facilities in Antarctica: Dakshin Gangotri which is now a supply base, and ______ and Bharati, which are active research stations.
India has established three research facilities in Antarctica: Dakshin Gangotri which is now a supply base, and ______ and Bharati, which are active research stations.
The coldest land temperature recorded on Earth was in Antarctica at ______ °C.
The coldest land temperature recorded on Earth was in Antarctica at ______ °C.
The ______ Treaty, signed by forty-five nations, dictates that Antarctica shall be used only for peaceful purposes.
The ______ Treaty, signed by forty-five nations, dictates that Antarctica shall be used only for peaceful purposes.
Unlike other continents, Antarctica has no ______ population or government of its own.
Unlike other continents, Antarctica has no ______ population or government of its own.
[Blank] was the first explorer to reach the South Pole in 1911.
[Blank] was the first explorer to reach the South Pole in 1911.
Although several countries claim parts of Antarctica, these claims are not recognized by the international community and cannot be enforced due to the ______ Treaty.
Although several countries claim parts of Antarctica, these claims are not recognized by the international community and cannot be enforced due to the ______ Treaty.
The waters surrounding Antarctica, which are parts of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, are collectively called the ______ Ocean.
The waters surrounding Antarctica, which are parts of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, are collectively called the ______ Ocean.
The eastern part of Antarctica, known as ______, faces the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
The eastern part of Antarctica, known as ______, faces the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is approximately ______ °C, demonstrating its extreme cold climate.
The average annual temperature in Antarctica is approximately ______ °C, demonstrating its extreme cold climate.
West Antarctica is characterized by the Antarctic Peninsula and two large ice shelves known as the ______ and Ronne.
West Antarctica is characterized by the Antarctic Peninsula and two large ice shelves known as the ______ and Ronne.
The low rainfall in Antarctica is partly due to ______ winds, which rush down the sides of mountains.
The low rainfall in Antarctica is partly due to ______ winds, which rush down the sides of mountains.
The ______ River, though the longest in Antarctica, is only about 40 kilometers long.
The ______ River, though the longest in Antarctica, is only about 40 kilometers long.
The high ______ of Antarctica's surface means that a lot of the energy and sunlight received from the sun is reflected back into space.
The high ______ of Antarctica's surface means that a lot of the energy and sunlight received from the sun is reflected back into space.
Because oceans store heat leading to milder temperatures and increased rainfall, only the ______ of Antarctica experience this effect due to the continent's large landmass.
Because oceans store heat leading to milder temperatures and increased rainfall, only the ______ of Antarctica experience this effect due to the continent's large landmass.
[Blank] Antarctica, also known as Greater Antarctica, constitutes two-thirds of the continent's land area and is its oldest part.
[Blank] Antarctica, also known as Greater Antarctica, constitutes two-thirds of the continent's land area and is its oldest part.
The ______ Peninsula is the warmest part of Antarctica, closest to South America, and a common destination for cruise ships.
The ______ Peninsula is the warmest part of Antarctica, closest to South America, and a common destination for cruise ships.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet can grow from about 3 million square kilometers in the summer to about 19 million square kilometers in the ______.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet can grow from about 3 million square kilometers in the summer to about 19 million square kilometers in the ______.
Lake ______, the largest of Antarctica's sub-glacial lakes, lies 4 km below the continental ice sheet and has been sealed from air and light for millions of years.
Lake ______, the largest of Antarctica's sub-glacial lakes, lies 4 km below the continental ice sheet and has been sealed from air and light for millions of years.
The ______ Mountains stretch across the entire continent, separating East Antarctica from West Antarctica, and contain rocks similar to those in Tasmania.
The ______ Mountains stretch across the entire continent, separating East Antarctica from West Antarctica, and contain rocks similar to those in Tasmania.
[Blank] Massif, located in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains, stands as the highest point in Antarctica at 4,892 meters.
[Blank] Massif, located in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains, stands as the highest point in Antarctica at 4,892 meters.
Which hemisphere is Antarctica located in?
Which hemisphere is Antarctica located in?
What is the name of the treaty that governs Antarctica?
What is the name of the treaty that governs Antarctica?
What is the average annual temperature in Antarctica?
What is the average annual temperature in Antarctica?
What is the name of the ocean surrounding Antarctica?
What is the name of the ocean surrounding Antarctica?
What is the recorded coldest temperature in Antarctica?
What is the recorded coldest temperature in Antarctica?
Name one animal that lives in Antarctica.
Name one animal that lives in Antarctica.
What is the name of the explorer who first reached the South Pole?
What is the name of the explorer who first reached the South Pole?
Is there a native population in Antarctica?
Is there a native population in Antarctica?
In what year the Antarctic Treaty was first signed?
In what year the Antarctic Treaty was first signed?
What is the name of the famous volcano located in Antarctica?
What is the name of the famous volcano located in Antarctica?
What is the name of the international agreement that protects Antarctica?
What is the name of the international agreement that protects Antarctica?
What type of zone is Antarctica also known as, due to the absence of permanent human settlement?
What type of zone is Antarctica also known as, due to the absence of permanent human settlement?
Name one of the hardy plants that can be found along the coast and on the Antarctic Peninsula.
Name one of the hardy plants that can be found along the coast and on the Antarctic Peninsula.
What primary inhabitants of Antarctica are known for their oily feathers and thick layer of fat?
What primary inhabitants of Antarctica are known for their oily feathers and thick layer of fat?
What is the name given to winds that rush down the sides of mountains, contributing to low rainfall in Antarctica?
What is the name given to winds that rush down the sides of mountains, contributing to low rainfall in Antarctica?
What is the term for the percentage of incoming sunlight reflected by a surface, contributing to Antarctica's cold temperatures?
What is the term for the percentage of incoming sunlight reflected by a surface, contributing to Antarctica's cold temperatures?
Name one of the seas that surround the continent of Antarctica.
Name one of the seas that surround the continent of Antarctica.
What is the name describing the sharp, wave-like grooves or ridges formed by strong winds on the ice plateau in East Antarctica?
What is the name describing the sharp, wave-like grooves or ridges formed by strong winds on the ice plateau in East Antarctica?
Which part of Antarctica is closest to South America?
Which part of Antarctica is closest to South America?
What is the name of the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica?
What is the name of the largest sub-glacial lake in Antarctica?
What mountain range separates East Antarctica from West Antarctica?
What mountain range separates East Antarctica from West Antarctica?
What is the name of the highest point in Antarctica?
What is the name of the highest point in Antarctica?
What is the name of the part of Antarctica also known as Greater Antarctica?
What is the name of the part of Antarctica also known as Greater Antarctica?
Explain how the Antarctic Treaty of 1961 protects Antarctica. Include two specific provisions from the treaty in your explanation.
Explain how the Antarctic Treaty of 1961 protects Antarctica. Include two specific provisions from the treaty in your explanation.
Describe the formation of the lava lake in Mount Erebus's caldera.
Describe the formation of the lava lake in Mount Erebus's caldera.
Why are penguins considered the primary inhabitants of Antarctica, and what evolutionary adaptations have allowed them to thrive in this environment?
Why are penguins considered the primary inhabitants of Antarctica, and what evolutionary adaptations have allowed them to thrive in this environment?
Explain why Antarctica is known as a 'Human Void Zone'.
Explain why Antarctica is known as a 'Human Void Zone'.
How do the solid bones of penguins aid in their survival in Antarctica?
How do the solid bones of penguins aid in their survival in Antarctica?
Describe the purpose and function of the research stations in Antarctica.
Describe the purpose and function of the research stations in Antarctica.
Besides research, what makes Antarctica unique in terms of population and governance?
Besides research, what makes Antarctica unique in terms of population and governance?
How does the Antarctic Treaty influence the territorial claims made by several countries on Antarctica?
How does the Antarctic Treaty influence the territorial claims made by several countries on Antarctica?
Describe the key difference in climate between the coastal and interior mountainous regions of Antarctica.
Describe the key difference in climate between the coastal and interior mountainous regions of Antarctica.
Explain how the waters surrounding Antarctica are geographically defined, and what they are collectively known as.
Explain how the waters surrounding Antarctica are geographically defined, and what they are collectively known as.
Identify the explorer credited with first reaching the South Pole and provide the year of this achievement.
Identify the explorer credited with first reaching the South Pole and provide the year of this achievement.
In what ways does the Antarctic Treaty System ensure that Antarctica remains a place of international cooperation and peace?
In what ways does the Antarctic Treaty System ensure that Antarctica remains a place of international cooperation and peace?
How do ice shelves such as the Ross and Ronne, influence the geography of West Antarctica?
How do ice shelves such as the Ross and Ronne, influence the geography of West Antarctica?
Describe the conditions that led to the record of the lowest recorded temperature on Earth, specifiying location and year.
Describe the conditions that led to the record of the lowest recorded temperature on Earth, specifiying location and year.
What are the major differences between East and West Antarctica in terms of geography and which oceans border East Antarctica?
What are the major differences between East and West Antarctica in terms of geography and which oceans border East Antarctica?
Explain how Antarctica's high albedo contributes to its extreme cold temperatures.
Explain how Antarctica's high albedo contributes to its extreme cold temperatures.
Describe the role of katabatic winds in contributing to low rainfall in some parts of Antarctica.
Describe the role of katabatic winds in contributing to low rainfall in some parts of Antarctica.
Compare and contrast the general geological stability of East Antarctica and West Antarctica.
Compare and contrast the general geological stability of East Antarctica and West Antarctica.
Explain why the Antarctic Peninsula is considered the warmest part of Antarctica.
Explain why the Antarctic Peninsula is considered the warmest part of Antarctica.
Describe how the Transantarctic Mountains influence the ice sheets of East Antarctica.
Describe how the Transantarctic Mountains influence the ice sheets of East Antarctica.
Discuss the significance of Lake Vostok in the context of Antarctica's sub-glacial environment.
Discuss the significance of Lake Vostok in the context of Antarctica's sub-glacial environment.
Explain how Antarctica's location around the geomagnetic South Pole contributes to its unique climatic conditions.
Explain how Antarctica's location around the geomagnetic South Pole contributes to its unique climatic conditions.
Describe what Sastrugi are and how they are formed.
Describe what Sastrugi are and how they are formed.
Explain why, despite receiving the same amount of sunlight, the South Pole is much colder than the North Pole?
Explain why, despite receiving the same amount of sunlight, the South Pole is much colder than the North Pole?
What evidence suggests that Tasmania and Antarctica were once part of the same landmass?
What evidence suggests that Tasmania and Antarctica were once part of the same landmass?
Flashcards
Mount Erebus
Mount Erebus
An active volcano on Ross Island with a permanent lava lake in its caldera.
Caldera
Caldera
A hole on a volcano top, often filled with lava after eruptions.
Antarctic Treaty (1961)
Antarctic Treaty (1961)
An international agreement designating Antarctica for peaceful research, banning military activity and waste disposal.
Human Void Zone (Antarctica)
Human Void Zone (Antarctica)
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Penguins
Penguins
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Dakshin Gangotri
Dakshin Gangotri
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Antarctica
Antarctica
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Antarctica's native animals
Antarctica's native animals
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Coldest temperature on Earth
Coldest temperature on Earth
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Location of Antarctica
Location of Antarctica
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Oceans surrounding Antarctica
Oceans surrounding Antarctica
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Southern Ocean
Southern Ocean
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East Antarctica
East Antarctica
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Antarctic Treaty
Antarctic Treaty
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Antarctica's climate
Antarctica's climate
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Katabatic Winds
Katabatic Winds
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Dry Valleys
Dry Valleys
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South Pole Temperature
South Pole Temperature
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Albedo Effect (Antarctica)
Albedo Effect (Antarctica)
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Sastrugi
Sastrugi
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Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctic Peninsula
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Ice Shelves
Ice Shelves
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Transantarctic Mountains
Transantarctic Mountains
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Roald Amundsen
Roald Amundsen
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The South Pole
The South Pole
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Two large ice shelves
Two large ice shelves
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International Community
International Community
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Antarctica's Precipitation
Antarctica's Precipitation
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The Onyx River
The Onyx River
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Greater Antarctica
Greater Antarctica
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Lesser Antarctica
Lesser Antarctica
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Antarctic Ice Shelves
Antarctic Ice Shelves
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Amundsen Sea
Amundsen Sea
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Lake Vostok
Lake Vostok
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Vinson Massif
Vinson Massif
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Albedo
Albedo
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Mount Erebus Formation
Mount Erebus Formation
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Erebus' Caldera
Erebus' Caldera
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Antarctic Treaty Details
Antarctic Treaty Details
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Human Status in Antarctica
Human Status in Antarctica
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Penguin Adaptations
Penguin Adaptations
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Maitri and Bharati
Maitri and Bharati
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Antarctica's size
Antarctica's size
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Antarctica's inhabitants
Antarctica's inhabitants
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Countries claiming Antarctica
Countries claiming Antarctica
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Antarctica's unique status
Antarctica's unique status
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The Southern Ocean
The Southern Ocean
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The Antarctic Treaty
The Antarctic Treaty
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Katabatic Winds (Antarctica)
Katabatic Winds (Antarctica)
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Why Antarctica is Cold and Dry
Why Antarctica is Cold and Dry
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Major Antarctic Ice Shelves
Major Antarctic Ice Shelves
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Seas of the Southern Ocean
Seas of the Southern Ocean
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Erebus Volcano
Erebus Volcano
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Ross Ice Shelf
Ross Ice Shelf
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Antarctic Flora
Antarctic Flora
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Antarctic Seabirds
Antarctic Seabirds
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Antarctic Zooplankton
Antarctic Zooplankton
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Antarctic Precipitation
Antarctic Precipitation
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Mount Erebus Age
Mount Erebus Age
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Mount Erebus Summit
Mount Erebus Summit
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Antarctic Treaty Content
Antarctic Treaty Content
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Antarctic Hardy Plants
Antarctic Hardy Plants
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Penguin Features
Penguin Features
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Maitri Research Station
Maitri Research Station
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Antarctic winds
Antarctic winds
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Low Sun Angle
Low Sun Angle
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Ice shelf growth
Ice shelf growth
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Bellingshausen Sea
Bellingshausen Sea
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Weddell Sea
Weddell Sea
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Dry Valleys (Antarctica)
Dry Valleys (Antarctica)
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Cold air precipitation?
Cold air precipitation?
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Antarctic Ice
Antarctic Ice
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Antarctica's elevation/climate
Antarctica's elevation/climate
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Antarctic Research Stations
Antarctic Research Stations
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Antarctic Treaty restrictions
Antarctic Treaty restrictions
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Penguin oily feathers
Penguin oily feathers
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Penguin solid bones
Penguin solid bones
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Antarctic Circle
Antarctic Circle
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-50°C
-50°C
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200 mm (coastal)
200 mm (coastal)
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Smaller part of Antarctica.
Smaller part of Antarctica.
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Antarctic Ice Shelf
Antarctic Ice Shelf
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Seas Near Antarctica
Seas Near Antarctica
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Antarctic Treaty's Purpose
Antarctic Treaty's Purpose
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Antarctica's Ice Condition
Antarctica's Ice Condition
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Antarctica's Plant Life
Antarctica's Plant Life
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Antarctica's Climate Type
Antarctica's Climate Type
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Antarctic Seals
Antarctic Seals
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Penguin Evolution
Penguin Evolution
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Antarctica's Size and Ice
Antarctica's Size and Ice
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First to South Pole
First to South Pole
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Antarctica's Hemisphere
Antarctica's Hemisphere
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East Antarctica's Ocean Faces
East Antarctica's Ocean Faces
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West Antarctica's Size
West Antarctica's Size
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Antarctica's Temperature
Antarctica's Temperature
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Antarctica's Territorial Status
Antarctica's Territorial Status
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Antarctica's Lack of Residents
Antarctica's Lack of Residents
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Ross Sea
Ross Sea
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Antarctica's Uniqueness
Antarctica's Uniqueness
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Antarctica's Climate Conditions
Antarctica's Climate Conditions
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Antarctic Treaty Main Goal
Antarctic Treaty Main Goal
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Antarctica Ice Sheet
Antarctica Ice Sheet
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Antarctic Dryness Cause
Antarctic Dryness Cause
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Antarctica's Low Sun Angle
Antarctica's Low Sun Angle
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Geomagnetic South Pole
Geomagnetic South Pole
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High Land Altitude
High Land Altitude
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Winter Darkness
Winter Darkness
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Antarctica's Elevation
Antarctica's Elevation
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Mount Erebus Location
Mount Erebus Location
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Antarctic Treaty Focus
Antarctic Treaty Focus
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Penguin bones
Penguin bones
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60°S Latitude
60°S Latitude
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Maitri and Bharati location
Maitri and Bharati location
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Antarctic Treaty Nations
Antarctic Treaty Nations
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Antarctic Temperatures
Antarctic Temperatures
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Antarctic Precipitation Amounts
Antarctic Precipitation Amounts
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Antarctica Ice Thickness
Antarctica Ice Thickness
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Antarctica's Protected Status
Antarctica's Protected Status
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Penguin Bone Density
Penguin Bone Density
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Penguin's Fat Layer
Penguin's Fat Layer
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Penguin Wing Adaptation
Penguin Wing Adaptation
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World Penguin Day
World Penguin Day
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Antarctic Dry Valleys
Antarctic Dry Valleys
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Study Notes
- Antarctica is the fifth-largest continent, almost entirely covered in ice.
- Antarctica is extremely cold with no permanent human settlements; research stations exist for scientists.
- Penguins, seals, and other cold-climate animals that are suited to the cold habitats.
- The coldest land temperature recorded was -89.2°C at the Soviet Vostok Station in 1983.
- The South Pole is located in Antarctica, reached first by Roald Amundsen in 1911.
Location
- Antarctica is located entirely in the Southern Hemisphere, surrounding the South Pole, within the Antarctic Circle.
- Surrounded by the southernmost parts of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans known as the Southern Ocean.
- Ice sheets extend 14 million square kilometers in the summer.
- East Antarctica faces the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
- West Antarctica is only 5% of the continent's total surface area.
- The Antarctic Peninsula and the Ross and Ronne ice shelves prolong West Antarctica.
- West Antarctica is south of South America.
Status
- Antarctica has no native population or government and does not belong to any one nation.
- Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom claim parts of Antarctica.
- The international community does not recognize these claims because of the Antarctic Treaty.
- The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1961 by twelve nations, states that Antarctica is to be used for peaceful purposes only.
- Forty-five nations have signed the Antarctic Treaty.
Climate
- Antarctica has an extremely cold, dry climate, with an average annual temperature of around -50°C.
- Temperatures in mountainous, interior regions drop below -60°C in winter and -20°C in summer.
- Precipitation, always as snow, is about 200 mm annually in coastal regions and less than 50 mm in mountainous regions and on the East Antarctica plateau.
- Strong winds reach up to 200 mph.
- Katabatic winds contribute to low rainfall; they rush down the sides of mountains.
- The Dry Valleys have not received rain for around 2 million years.
- The longest river, the Onyx River, is only about 40 kilometers long.
- Both the Arctic and Antarctic regions receive indirect sunlight.
- The South Pole is much colder than the North Pole, despite receiving the same amount of sunlight.
Factors Contributing to Cold and Dry Climate
- Low angle of the sun spreads energy over a large area.
- Extended periods of darkness during winter.
- High albedo reflects sunlight back into space.
- High altitude causes temperature to decrease by approximately 1°C for every 100 m increase in height.
- Cold air cannot hold much water vapor.
- Antarctica's size limits the moderating effect of oceans to the edges of the continent.
Division of Antarctica
- Antarctica's landmass spreads unevenly around the geomagnetic South Pole.
- Cold deserts and large ice shelves make it up.
East Antarctica
- East Antarctica, also known as Greater Antarctica takes up two-thirds of the continent's land area.
- It is the oldest part of Antarctica.
- An ice plateau at the center of East Antarctica rises 3,000 meters above sea level.
- Strong winds create sastrugi, sharp, wave-like grooves or ridges in the snow on the plateau.
West Antarctica
- West Antarctica, also known as Lesser Antarctica, is smaller than East Antarctica.
- It is less geologically stable and covered in a thin ice sheet.
- It includes mountainous islands with an ice sheet and the Antarctic Peninsula.
- The Antarctic Peninsula is closest to South America.
- Many islands, such as the South Shetland Islands, are found off the Antarctic Peninsula.
- The warmest part of Antarctica and a destination for many cruise ships.
Ice, Sea and Lakes
- The Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets contain over 99% of the freshwater ice on Earth.
- The Antarctic Ice Sheet extends to almost 14 million square kilometers, roughly equal to the combined area of the United States and Mexico.
- It contains 30 million cubic kilometers of ice.
- The size of the ice sheet varies from about 3 million square kilometers in summers to about 19 million square kilometers in winters.
- This growth occurs partially because of ice shelves
Ice Shelves Include
- Ross Ice Shelf
- Larsen Ice Shelf
- Amery Ice Shelf
- Ronne Ice Shelf
- These shelves contribute to the growth of the ice sheet
Seas Surrounding Antarctica
- Ross Sea
- Bellingshausen Sea
- Amundsen Sea
- Weddell Sea
Sub-Glacial Lakes
- Antarctica has over 160 sub-glacial lakes.
- Lake Vostok is the largest, lying 4 km below the continental ice sheet.
- Lake Vostok means Lake East in Russian
- The water in Lake Vostok has been sealed from air and light for possibly 35 million years.
Mountain Ranges
- The mountain ranges are longer and higher than the European Alps but are buried under snow and ice.
- The peaks are battered by strong winds and storms.
Transantarctic Mountains
- The Transantarctic Mountain Range is 3,500 kilometers long.
- It separates East Antarctica from West Antarctica.
- Rocks in this range are similar to those on Mount Wellington in Tasmania, giving evidence that Tasmania and Antarctica were once part of the same landmass.
- Some peaks are more than 4,300 meters high.
- Dry valleys, the largest ice-free areas in Antarctica, are closer to sea level.
- The range acts as a dam, holding back the ice in East Antarctica.
Vinson Massif
- Vinson Massif is the highest point in Antarctica at 4,892 meters.
- It is in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains in West Antarctica.
- Named after Carl Vinson, a supporter of Antarctic research.
- It is isolated, making it difficult to access with extreme weather conditions that average -29°C in summer.
Mount Erebus
- Located on Ross Island in the Ross Sea in West Antarctica
- Active volcanoes in Antarctica include Mount Erebus.
- Mount Erebus was created by volcanic eruptions through the 700 meters thick Ross Ice Shelf.
- The volcano is around one million years old.
- One of the most active volcanoes globally.
- The summit of Mount Erebus rises to 3,794 meters
- It contains a permanent lava lake in its caldera.
- The flat top of the volcano was created when the summit buckled, creating a hole known as a caldera
- Eruptions are usually small, but large eruptions have occasionally occurred with ash found far away.
Life in Antarctica
- The ice is constantly moving, accumulating, and is the highest of all the continents
- Considered a cold desert, no humans live there permanently.
- Research stations are set up by various countries on rocks and ice.
- Antarctica is the last true wilderness on Earth, protected by the Antarctic Treaty of 1961.
- The treaty states that the area south of 60°S latitude cannot be claimed by any country, used for military purposes, or to dispose of radioactive waste.
- It is only for peaceful research.
- Antarctica is also known as a Human Void Zone, without any long term human inhabitants.
- The continent is nearly barren due to the cold and dry climate.
- Hardy plants such as pearlwort, mosses, and lichen are found along the coast and on the Antarctic Peninsula.
- Life is abundant in the sea and along the coast.
- Several seabirds make Antarctica their home, including twenty-four species of petrels.
- A wide variety of animals inhabit the Antarctic waters, from zooplankton to seals and whales.
- Penguins primarily inhabit Antarctica
- They evolved 40 to 50 million years ago.
- They have oily feathers for waterproofing and a thick layer of fat for insulation.
- Penguins have solid bones for diving which prevent them from flying.
- Their wings have evolved over the centuries to resemble flippers or paddles.
- 25th April is observed as World Penguin Day.
Key Facts
- About 98% of Antarctica is covered by an ice sheet, averaging around 1.9 kilometers thick, and up to 4.5 kilometers in some places.
- Tests reveal that Greater Antarctica is more than 570 million years old.
- India has set up three research facilities: Dakshin Gangotri (now a supply base), Maitri, and Bharati (active research stations).
- India is one of nine nations to have multiple research stations within the Antarctic Circle.
- The Antarctic Ice Sheet is roughly equal to the combined area of the United States and Mexico.
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