The Nuclear City Lost Under Ice | Camp Century

Camp Century in Greenland was a Cold War-era U.S. military base built under the ice. While its primary goal was military, it became a significant site for climate research, providing the first long ice core that revealed Earth's climate history. The base faced numerous challenges due to ice pressure and heat from a nuclear reactor. Although abandoned in 1967, its legacy continues as climate change threatens to expose hazardous waste left behind. The site underscores the importance of understanding and mitigating human impact on the environment.

What was unique about Camp Century compared to other US bases in Greenland?

• It was the largest base in the world.

• It was located in Antarctica.

• It was completely underground.

• It was built on a mountain.

What was the primary source of power for Camp Century?

• Wind turbines

• A portable nuclear reactor

• Diesel generators

• Solar panels

What did scientists study using the ice core from Camp Century?

• The movement of tectonic plates

• The formation of glaciers

• The migration patterns of polar bears

• The history of Earth's climate

What did the ice core from Camp Century reveal about Earth's climate?

• It showed a continuous warming trend.

• It confirmed the accuracy of other climate data sources.

• It indicated that the Earth was cooling.

• It suggested that climate change is a natural cycle.

What was the original Cold War purpose of Camp Century?

• To conduct agricultural experiments

• To mine for precious metals

• To serve as a tourist attraction

• To test a plan for nuclear missile storage

Why was Camp Century eventually abandoned?

• The base was attacked by enemy forces.

• The ice's instability made it unfeasible for its intended purpose.

• The base was too expensive to maintain.

• The ice was too stable.

What environmental concern is associated with the abandoned Camp Century?

• The spread of invasive species

• The release of nuclear waste due to melting ice

• The depletion of local water resources

• The increase in local temperatures