The Landscape of Antarctica

Antarctica holds 61% of Earth's freshwater in its vast ice sheets. Despite its cold climate, it supports diverse life in its oxygen-rich waters. The continent features unique valleys with catabatic winds that can reach high speeds, causing ice to evaporate. These valleys are of great interest to geologists and biologists due to their ancient rock layers and unique ecosystems. The Ice Age left a significant impact, with ice from the Ross Sea pushing inland. Lake Vander, with its salty bottom and pure upper layers, is a notable feature. Antarctica plays a crucial role in Earth's climate system, influencing ocean currents and contributing to rising sea levels.

What percentage of Earth's freshwater is held in Antarctica's ice?

• 30%

• 61%

• 45%

• 75%

What are catabatic winds, and what effect do they have in Antarctica?

• Winds that bring warm air, causing ice to melt

• Winds that carry moisture, leading to snowfall

• Winds that create sand dunes in the desert

• Winds driven by cold air, causing ice to evaporate

Which organisms are able to survive in the frozen deserts of Antarctica?

• Photosynthetic bacteria

• Penguins

• Seals

• Polar bears

What is unique about the water at the bottom of Lake Vander?

• It is three times saltier than the ocean

• It is less salty than the ocean

• It is completely frozen

• It is warmer than the surface

How does Antarctica influence global sea levels?

• By causing ocean currents to slow down

• By increasing rainfall

• By melting ice contributing to sea level rise

• By decreasing ocean salinity