Sea Levels Could be Rising Faster Than Predicted due to New Source of Antarctic Ice Melting – Independent
Credit: Christopher Michel/Flickr
Article Synopsis – Scientists have identified another feedback loop in Antarctica that could be accelerating glacial melt and sea level rise. As glaciers melt, they produce fresh water. When this meltwater enters the ocean surrounding the glacier it makes the surface layer less salty and therefore more buoyant. This leads to a layer of water floating on the surface, which prevents warm water below from mixing with cooler water above. With a pool of warm water underneath them, the melting of the bottom side of the glaciers accelerates. To read the actual article click here.