Source: TG
Subject: Mapping
Context: A recent assessment by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that the Arctic experienced its warmest and wettest year on record temperatures rising more than twice the global average.
About Arctic Region:
What it is?
- The Arctic is Earth’s northernmost polar region, characterised by extreme cold, vast ice cover, permafrost, and unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems. It plays a critical role in regulating global climate through its high albedo (ice reflectivity).
Located in:
- Lies north of the Arctic Circle (≈66.5° North latitude)
- Centred around the Arctic Ocean Basin
Bordering states:
The Arctic region spans parts of eight countries:
- Russia, Canada, United States (Alaska), Denmark (Greenland), Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland
Major rivers draining into the Arctic Ocean:
Large rivers bring freshwater and sediments into the Arctic, influencing salinity and sea ice:
- Ob, Yenisei, Lena (Russia)
- Mackenzie (Canada)
- Yukon (USA–Canada)
Geological features:
- Arctic Ocean Basin: Shallowest and coldest of the world’s ocean basins
- Continental shelves: Extensive shelves rich in hydrocarbons and minerals
- Lomonosov Ridge: Submarine mountain chain claimed by multiple Arctic states
- Permafrost: Permanently frozen ground storing vast amounts of carbon and methane
Unique facts:
- Holds about 20% of Earth’s freshwater in the form of glaciers and ice caps.
- Sea ice reflects ~80% of solar radiation, acting as Earth’s “refrigerator”.
- Experiences polar night and midnight sun due to Earth’s axial tilt.
- Warming has led to phenomena like “rusting rivers” from metal release due to permafrost thaw.
