Ice loss shifts Arctic cycles
In: Nature: International Weekly Journal of Science. Nature Publishing Group: London. ISSN 0028-0836; e-ISSN 1476-4687, more
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Keywords |
Climatic changes Ice > Sea ice Phase changes > Melting PN, Arctic [Marine Regions] Marine/Coastal |
Abstract |
Record shrinkage confounds models and portends atmospheric and ecological change. Before indifferent satellite eyes, the top of the world is undergoing a transformation. The Arctic ice pack, a primary indicator of climate change, has shrunk in recent weeks to an extent that no computer model and few scientists had thought possible. After five years that all saw less ice than previously documented in the 34-year satellite record, this year’s record loss has scientists questioning their models. They are also striving to understand the complex cascade of effects - from shifting weather patterns to displaced marine species - that the accelerating retreat could trigger. |
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