Scientists just found a lost river world buried beneath Antarctica’s ice for 34 million years
GS1History · Society · Geography· Physical geography (landforms, oceans, climate)· Prelims·
Why in news
An international team led by Durham University discovered a vast ancient landscape of 31 flat surfaces formed by rivers buried beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
Background
The discovery was made using the British Antarctic Survey's airborne radar technology to map bedrock beneath the ice. These surfaces were formed by rivers that flowed across the continent before being covered by ice approximately 80 million years ago.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TAirborne radar technology was used to map the bedrock beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
- PlaceThe discovery was made beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
- FactResearchers identified 31 flat surfaces formed by ancient rivers.
- FactThe surfaces were formed before being covered by ice approximately 80 million years ago.
For Mains
Q. How do sub-glacial geological features influence contemporary glacial dynamics and the accuracy of global sea-level rise projections?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Glacial dynamics: Sub-glacial topography influencing friction and flow velocity of ice sheets
- Climate modeling: Complexity in predicting sea-level rise due to hidden geological features
- Technological intervention: Role of airborne radar in mapping inaccessible polar terrains
Keywords: Glacial dynamics · Sub-glacial topography · Sea-level rise · Remote sensing · Cryospheric research
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