Why So Many Countries Claim Antarctica But Can’t Do Anything With It

The video explores Antarctica's geopolitical significance, historical exploration, and territorial claims. It discusses the continent's extreme climate and geography, highlighting its status as the world's largest desert. The Antarctic Treaty, which regulates international claims and ensures peaceful scientific use, is explained. The video also considers future prospects, including potential resource extraction as climate change impacts the ice sheets.

Which Greek philosopher speculated about a large southern continent in the 2nd century?

• Aristotle

• Ptolemy

• Socrates

• Plato

Who was the first to reach the South Pole in December 1911?

• Robert Falcon Scott

• Ernest Shackleton

• Fabian von Bellingshausen

• Roald Amundsen

What percentage of Antarctica's surface is covered by an ice sheet?

• 100%

• 50%

• 98%

• 70%

Which mountain range lies beneath Antarctica's ice?

• Gambertsu Mountains

• Andes

• Rocky Mountains

• Himalayas

How many countries initially signed the Antarctic Treaty in 1959?

• 7

• 12

• 20

• 56

Which two countries have research stations in Antarctica but did not make official claims?

• France and Norway

• Argentina and Chile

• Australia and New Zealand

• United States and Soviet Union

What is a potential reason countries are interested in claiming parts of Antarctica?

• Agriculture

• Resource extraction

• Tourism

• Urban development