surface ice

Surface ice is a thin layer of frozen water that forms on the surface of a body of water, like a pond, lake, or ocean, when temperatures drop below freezing. It acts as a natural cover, insulating the water beneath and affecting local ecosystems and weather patterns. Surface ice can vary in thickness and appearance, from smooth sheets to rough, broken fragments. It plays a crucial role in climate regulation and provides habitat for certain wildlife, such as polar bears or seals in Arctic regions. Its presence is an indicator of cold conditions and seasonal change.