Antarctic Ice Sheet

The Antarctic Ice Sheet is a vast expanse of ice covering Antarctica, making it the largest single mass of ice on Earth. It holds about 60% of the world's fresh water. The ice sheet is crucial for Earth's climate, acting as a key regulator of sea levels. It consists of two main parts: the East Antarctic Ice Sheet and the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. As global temperatures rise, scientists monitor its stability since melting ice could significantly contribute to sea level rise, impacting coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide. Understanding the ice sheet is vital for predicting climate change effects.