
Ice caps
Ice caps are large, continuous masses of thick, slow-moving ice covering extensive areas of land or sea, typically found in high latitudes near the poles. They are much larger than glaciers and play a crucial role in Earth's climate system by reflecting sunlight and regulating global temperatures. Ice caps store about 70% of the world's fresh water and are sensitive indicators of climate change, melting and shrinking as global temperatures rise. Their loss can lead to sea level rise and impact global ecosystems.