Barrier ice is a term that is commonly used in the field of oceanography and climate science. It refers to a type of ice that forms along the edges of glaciers, ice shelves, and other large ice formations. Barrier ice plays an important role in the Earth’s climate system, as it helps to regulate the flow of ocean currents and the exchange of heat between the atmosphere and the ocean. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and associations of barrier ice.
Definitions
Barrier ice is a type of ice that forms at the edges of glaciers, ice shelves, and other large ice formations. It is characterized by its thickness and strength, which allow it to act as a barrier to the flow of water and other materials. Barrier ice can be several meters thick and can extend for hundreds of kilometers along the edge of an ice formation.
Origin
Barrier ice is formed through a process known as calving, which occurs when large chunks of ice break off from the edge of a glacier or ice shelf and fall into the ocean. This process creates a layer of ice along the edge of the ice formation, which can then thicken and strengthen over time.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, barrier ice is defined as “a mass of ice that forms a barrier along the edge of a glacier or ice sheet.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a thick, strong layer of ice that forms along the edges of glaciers and ice shelves, acting as a barrier to the flow of water and other materials.”
Associations
Barrier ice is associated with a number of important processes in the Earth’s climate system. It helps to regulate the flow of ocean currents, which in turn affects the distribution of heat and nutrients around the world. Barrier ice also plays a role in sea level rise, as it can contribute to the melting of glaciers and ice shelves.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for barrier ice include ice shelf, glacier ice, and ice barrier.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for barrier ice, as it is a specific type of ice formation.
The same root words
There are no direct root words for barrier ice, as it is a specific term in the field of oceanography and climate science.
Example Sentences
- The barrier ice along the edge of the glacier was several meters thick and extended for hundreds of kilometers.
- Scientists are studying the role of barrier ice in regulating ocean currents and the exchange of heat between the atmosphere and the ocean.
- The melting of barrier ice is contributing to sea level rise around the world.