Antarctica's Geography and Geology

Antarctica is not a unified landmass beneath the ice. If the ice melted, the Antarctic Peninsula would become a separate archipelago known as Lesser Antarctica, while Greater Antarctica would remain above the ocean, similar in size to Australia. These two regions differ due to their distinct geologies: Greater Antarctica is composed of ancient metamorphic rocks, whereas Lesser Antarctica consists of younger sedimentary and volcanic rocks.

What would the Antarctic Peninsula become if the ice melted?

• A single large island

• A separate archipelago

• A desert

• A glacier

How is Antarctica divided in terms of its structure?

• Into three equal parts

• Into Lesser and Greater Antarctica

• Into Northern and Southern Antarctica

• Into Eastern and Western Antarctica

What is the main characteristic of Lesser Antarctica?

• It is a single landmass

• It is a desert

• It is archipelagic

• It is covered in forests

What type of rocks make up Greater Antarctica?

• Metamorphic rocks

• Igneous rocks

• Volcanic rocks

• Sedimentary rocks

Which part of Antarctica is known for its younger geological composition?

• Central Antarctica

• Lesser Antarctica

• Northern Antarctica

• Greater Antarctica

What is the geological composition of Lesser Antarctica?

• Ancient metamorphic rocks

• Young sedimentary and volcanic rocks

• Igneous rocks

• Fossil-rich rocks