Ice melting is a process that converts solid water (ice) into liquid water or water vapour. It is accomplished through the absorption or release of energy. To melt ice, heat must be applied, and this can come from many sources, including the surface on which it is placed, the air surrounding it, or other nearby materials.
A large fraction of Earth’s freshwater is stored in glaciers and the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets. When they melt or calve, they flow into the oceans and contribute to sea level rise. Over the past two decades, scientists have been monitoring the weight of these ice sheets using twin GRACE satellites and the subsequent GRACE-Follow On mission. The results are clear: Both the ice sheets and individual glaciers are losing mass.
The speed at which ice melt works depends on the temperature, moisture content, chemical composition, and concentration of the product. Additionally, the method of application can affect the melt rate. For example, an evenly spread product typically melts ice more quickly than a concentrated application.
Glaciers aren’t just beautiful ice formations; they are vital natural resources in mountainous regions around the world. In addition to supplying rivers with much needed water, they also offer recreational opportunities for locals and visitors. However, glaciers are increasingly threatened by climate change. Rising temperatures are causing the ice caps to melt, and melting glaciers have implications for people worldwide. For instance, ocean currents may shift, disrupting fisheries and causing flooding in coastal communities. Melting sea ice and glaciers also affects wildlife, like polar bears and walruses, who need land to travel, hunt, and mate.