Scientists just found a lost river world buried beneath Antarctica’s ice for 34 million years
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims·
Why in news
An international team led by Durham University discovered 31 ancient river plains beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet using ice-penetrating radar.
Background
The discovery reveals river plains formed over 80 million years ago when Antarctica and Australia were joined. These surfaces are believed to slow the flow of glaciers today, impacting current climate models.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TIce-penetrating radar: Technology used to detect ancient river plains beneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet.
- PlaceEast Antarctic Ice Sheet: Location of the discovered 31 ancient river plains.
- Fact31 ancient river plains: Number of surfaces discovered beneath the ice.
- Fact80 million years: Timeframe when Antarctica and Australia were joined to form these surfaces.
For Mains
Q. How do sub-glacial geological features influence global climate models and the rate of glacial melting in Antarctica?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Model inaccuracy: Failure to account for sub-glacial topography in current ice-flow velocity projections
- Feedback loops: Interaction between ancient geological structures and modern glacial movement dynamics
Keywords: Glaciology · Climate Modeling · Sub-glacial Topography · Antarctic Ice Sheet · Geological History
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