NASA | A Short Tour of the Cryosphere

The video explores the impact of polar and frozen regions on Earth's climate and ecosystems. It begins with Antarctica's ice dynamics, highlighting the formation of icebergs and the collapse of ice shelves due to rising temperatures. The role of sea ice in global ocean circulation and its influence on climate is discussed. The video also covers the shrinking of glaciers worldwide, the importance of snow in North America's water resources, and the risks of fire. It examines permafrost regions and the dramatic changes in Arctic sea ice. Greenland's ice sheet and its contribution to iceberg production are highlighted. Finally, NASA's satellite observations of cryospheric processes are emphasized as crucial for understanding global changes.

What is the primary role of ice shelves in Antarctica?

• To promote the formation of melt ponds

• To hold back rivers like dams

• To create new icebergs

• To increase the speed of ice streams

How does snowmelt contribute to water resources in North America?

• It supplies three-quarters of the water resources used in the American West

• It provides half of the water resources used in the American West

• It has no significant impact on water resources

• It contributes to the formation of permafrost

What is a significant consequence of the shrinking Arctic sea ice?

• Increased formation of glaciers

• More open water leading to greater heating

• Decreased global ocean circulation

• Stabilization of the Arctic climate

What percentage of the Earth's glacial ice is contained in Greenland's ice sheet?

• 20%

• 15%

• 10%

• 5%

What has been observed about Greenland's Jakobshavn ice stream in recent years?

• It has become the slowest flowing glacier

• It has remained stable

• Its flow rate has decreased

• The ice has thinned and the front has retreated