This article discusses recent discoveries about Antarctica, which is the coldest and most mysterious continent on Earth. Scientists have been studying the continent's surface, but what lies beneath the ice is even more fascinating. They have discovered a massive lake, Vostok, hidden under 11,886 feet of ice, which is about 1.5 times the size of the island of Cyprus. The lake contains a unique type of bacteria that is only 86% identical to other living organisms on Earth, likely due to its isolation for millions of years.
Researchers have also discovered other subglacial lakes and cavities, including the Bentley Depression, which is the deepest continental point on Earth not filled with liquid water. Using space sensors, scientists have mapped the uneven distribution of ice in Antarctica, revealing a "cemetery" of ancient cratons, which are remnants of the supercontinent Gondwana.
In addition, researchers have drilled holes into the ice to study its secrets, including a 7,060-foot-deep hole that has helped scientists understand the ice sheet's history and potential future changes. The article also discusses massive holes that appear in Antarctica, such as the Wormwood hole, which was caused by a cyclone and is expected to grow to the size of Ireland.
While these discoveries have raised concerns about climate change, some scientists believe that the formation of these holes can promote better circulation between the ocean and atmosphere, potentially benefiting Antarctic animals. However, the large size of these holes can also affect ocean circulation and lead to global climate change. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of continued observation and study of Antarctica, as the continent's fate is closely tied to the future of humanity.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. There are no reptiles or amphibians in Antarctica, and all land mammals were brought by humans.
2. It has not rained in Antarctica for almost 2 million years.
3. 80% of the world's fresh water reserves are stored in Antarctica.
4. Antarctica is home to Lake Vostok, a subglacial lake located under 11,886 feet of ice.
5. Lake Vostok is approximately 5,800 square miles in size, about 1.5 times the size of the island of Cyprus.
6. The depth of Lake Vostok reaches 4,000 feet.
7. The lake was isolated from the rest of the world for several million years, allowing unique bacteria to develop.
8. Researchers discovered a new type of bacteria, W123-10, with DNA that is only 86% identical to other living things on Earth.
9. Scientists found traces of about 3,500 species of living organisms in Lake Vostok.
10. There are at least three cratons (stable rocky cores of continents) in East Antarctica.
11. One of the cratons is similar to the rocks of Australia, another to India, and the third to the seabed.
12. Scientists used a special drill to study the secrets of Antarctica, reaching a depth of 7,060 feet.
13. The ice in Eastern Antarctica is thicker than in Western Antarctica.
14. A cyclone in September 2017 caused a huge hole in the ice, known as the Wormwood hole.
15. The hole is approximately 3,700 square miles in size and is expected to grow to 37,000 square miles.
16. Climate change is expected to increase the number of cyclones that trigger holes in the ice.
17. A mountain-like geological structure separates the Western and Eastern parts of Antarctica, protecting the Ross glacier from warm water.
18. If not for this dividing line, the rate of entry of Antarctic subglacial groundwater into the ocean would increase by 20%.
19. The complete melting of Antarctica could lead to an increase in global sea level by 38 feet.