Norðurhveli

Norðurhveli is the Icelandic word for the Arctic region. It encompasses the Arctic Ocean and parts of surrounding landmasses. The region is characterized by its extreme cold, extensive ice cover, and unique ecosystems. The Arctic Circle, a line of latitude at approximately 66.5 degrees North, is often used as a boundary for the region, though its exact definition can vary. Geographically, Norðurhveli includes the northernmost parts of countries such as Canada, Russia, the United States (Alaska), Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Greenland (part of Denmark). The low temperatures are a result of the Earth's axial tilt and the low angle of incoming solar radiation. Despite its harsh environment, Norðurhveli is home to a variety of specialized flora and fauna, including polar bears, seals, whales, and Arctic foxes. Human populations in the Arctic are sparse, with indigenous communities having adapted to life in this challenging climate for millennia. Increasing global temperatures have led to significant melting of Arctic sea ice and glaciers, with profound implications for the environment, wildlife, and indigenous peoples of the region, as well as for global climate patterns.