Sea Ice Concentration

Sea ice concentration refers to the amount of the ocean surface covered by sea ice at a given location, expressed as a percentage. For example, 100% means the entire area is covered with ice, while 50% indicates half of the area has ice and the other half is open water. It’s an important measurement for understanding climate conditions, marine ecosystems, and shipping routes in polar regions. Changes in sea ice concentration can signal climate shifts, with decreasing levels indicating warming temperatures and melting ice. This data is crucial for scientists monitoring global climate patterns and Arctic and Antarctic environments.