Mannerjäiden

Mannerjäiden are large, continuous masses of ice that form on land from the accumulation of snow over many years. They are distinct from glaciers, which are smaller and typically found in mountainous regions. Mannerjäiden can cover vast areas, sometimes spanning entire continents.

The formation of mannerjäiden is a slow process driven by climate conditions that favor snowfall exceeding melt. Over time, the immense pressure from accumulated snow compacts the lower layers into ice. These ice sheets can be thousands of meters thick. As they grow, their immense weight can depress the underlying landmass.

Today, the two largest mannerjäiden on Earth are the Antarctic ice sheet and the Greenland ice sheet. These ice sheets play a crucial role in regulating global climate and sea levels. Their melting can lead to significant sea-level rise, posing a threat to coastal communities worldwide. Studying mannerjäiden provides valuable insights into past climate conditions and future climate projections.