Here are 5 interesting facts about Antarctica that will surprise you. The South Pole is one of the most enigmatic places on Earth
The so-called “Ice Continent” surrounds the South Pole and offers surprising oddities and interesting facts about Antarctica that will surprise you. There are more than ten countries claiming a portion of this enormous territory that, to this day, still does not have a recognized government. The temperatures there are extreme, with hardly any permanent inhabitants. Despite those facts about Antarctica, the place is captivating for its natural beauty. Here we share with you five interesting facts that will allow you to become more acquainted with the frozen continent.
Antarctica, a continent of extremes
This continent holds about 80% of the Earth’s fresh water. Ironically, because it is frozen, it cannot be used. Antarctica is the continent with the lowest average humidity on the planet. It also has the lowest average temperature on the globe.
A history of the name. Facts about Antarctica
Historians believe that the first person to use the name Antarctica to refer to the continent was the Scottish cartographer, John George Bartholomew, in 1890. The Greek word “antarktikos” means “opposite to the bear”. In this case, it is opposite the boreal constellation Ursa Minor, which contains the North Star pointing to the North Pole. Thus, by opposing this “bear”, it alludes to the South Pole.
The largest glaciers on Earth
Climate warming is already leaving its mark on the continent. The great glaciers are losing ice mass. This can have terrible consequences on marine ecosystems. Despite this serious and very real problem, there are still glaciers of gigantic proportions. Among the best known are Denman, Scott, Lambert and Mertz.
Eternal nights and days
During the summer, in the month of January, it is always daytime in Antarctica. During the nights, the sun “descends” in what is known as the ” white nights”. Within a short time, it rises again, so the sky is always clear. In winter, however, there is permanent twilight. According to experts, at the south pole, the night lasts six months and the day lasts the other six.
The Antarctic Krill, a 4-centimeter crustacean that saves Antarctic animal life
The fauna in Antarctica is very scarce. In such extreme conditions, only the most adapted species can survive. The vast majority of animals subsist thanks to a tiny crustacean barely measuring four centimeters in length: the krill. This crustacean is the main source of food for whales, birds, penguins, and seals. That are facts about Antarctica
