Antarctica Flashcards
(36 cards)
What does it mean that Antarctica is a global common?
It is not owned by any one country and is preserved for collective international use—especially for peace and science.
Where is Antarctica located?
Mostly south of 60°S latitude, surrounded by the Southern Ocean, extending as far north as the Antarctic Convergence.
What percentage of Antarctica is ice-covered?
0.98
What are the climate characteristics of Antarctica?
It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent with average interior temperatures around -57°C and summer temperatures above 0°C on the Peninsula.
Why is Antarctica considered a polar desert?
Because it receives very little precipitation.
What role does the Southern Ocean play in global systems?
It is crucial to global thermohaline circulation, which helps balance the Earth’s climate.
What wildlife is found in Antarctica’s marine ecosystems?
Krill, whales, and penguins.
Why is Antarctica vulnerable to global pressures?
Due to climate change, overfishing, tourism, mineral exploration, and pollution.
How has the West Antarctic Ice Sheet changed due to climate change?
It has warmed rapidly with air temperatures rising ~3°C in 50 years.
What is the impact of melting glaciers like Thwaites?
Could raise sea levels by 0.5–3 meters.
How does ocean acidification affect Antarctic ecosystems?
It reduces calcium carbonate availability, threatening krill.
How does changing sea ice affect Antarctic wildlife?
It impacts the breeding patterns of seals and penguins.
What is the impact of krill fishing?
It threatens the Antarctic food web by targeting a foundational species.
What is bycatch and why is it a problem in Antarctica?
It is the unintentional capture of non-target species like seabirds and seals.
What does the IWC Whaling Moratorium ban?
Commercial whaling.
Which country resumed commercial whaling despite the IWC ban?
Japan, in 2019.
What resources are found in Antarctica?
Coal, iron, possibly oil and gas.
What does the Madrid Protocol say about mining?
It bans all mineral resource activities.
When can the Madrid Protocol mining ban be reviewed?
In 2048, requiring 75% of consultative parties to agree.
How many tourists visit Antarctica each year?
Around 50,000.
What environmental impacts does tourism cause?
Trampling, pollution, waste, and wildlife disruption.
What is IAATO?
The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators—sets guidelines for tourism.
How many research stations exist in Antarctica?
Over 70.
What is the Antarctic Treaty?
A 1959 agreement signed by 12 countries (now 46) to preserve Antarctica for peace and science.
