7 Amazing Facts About Antarctica
Fact 1: Coldest Place on Earth
Antarctica is the coldest place on Earth, with temperatures dropping as low as -128.6°F (-89.2°C).
Fact 2: Largest Desert on Earth
Despite being covered in ice, Antarctica is considered the largest desert on Earth due to its low precipitation.
Fact 3: No Native Human Population
Antarctica has no native human population, and the Antarctic Treaty prohibits military activity and mineral mining, preserving it for scientific research.
Fact 4: Ice Sheet Thickness
The Antarctic Ice Sheet is the largest single mass of ice on Earth, containing about 60% of the world's fresh water.
Fact 5: Midnight Sun
During the Antarctic summer, parts of the continent experience the "midnight sun," where the sun remains above the horizon for an extended period.
Fact 6: Unique Wildlife
Antarctica is home to unique wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, adapted to the extreme conditions of the region.
Fact 7: Iceberg B-15
In 2000, the largest iceberg ever recorded, named B-15, broke away from the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica. It measured about 183 miles (295 km) long and 23 miles (37 km) wide.