The Breakup of Gondwana Over 100 Million Years Ago May Be Why Antarctica Has Ice Today
Geologists have discovered that tectonic uplift caused by the breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana millions of years ago likely created the high-elevation conditions necessary for the formation of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet. This study links ancient tectonic history to modern climate phenomena.
Why it matters
Understanding the geological drivers of past glaciation helps scientists better model and predict future climate and ice sheet stability.
Hundreds of millions of years ago, Antarctica’s climate resembled a tropical forest. It was humid, warm, and abundant in plant and animal life.
The article reports on scientific research findings without political bias.
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