US scientists drill into lake deep under Antarctic ice sheet

American scientists drilled into the Ross Ice Shelf to explore a subglacial lake. They used a sterilized hot water drill, heated to 90°C, and ultraviolet lamps to prevent contamination. The borehole pressure was managed to avoid drilling water entering the lake. Contrary to predictions, the lake was found to be only 5-6 feet deep, with sediment filling the original 30-foot depth.

What was the primary purpose of the drilling operation on the Ross Ice Shelf?

• To find signs of life under the ice

• To extract oil

• To measure ice thickness

• To create a new water reservoir

How was the water used in the drilling process sterilized?

• Filtering through sand

• By boiling it

• Using ultraviolet lamps

• Adding chlorine

Why did scientists pump out water from the borehole during the drilling process?

• To clean the borehole

• To lower the pressure and prevent contamination

• To prevent the borehole from freezing

• To increase the pressure

What happened when the drill finally pierced the lake?

• The lake water rose into the borehole

• The lake water evaporated

• The drill got stuck

• The borehole collapsed

What was the actual depth of the lake compared to the predicted depth?

• The lake was shallower than predicted

• The lake was not measured

• The lake was deeper than predicted

• The lake depth matched predictions