By: Annalissa Thomas

This article talks about the effect that volcanic eruptions have on ice sheets. The eruptions do not have to be around or near the ice sheet for this to occur; the ash from the eruption travels and once it settles on an ice sheet, it blackens the sheet, which makes the ice absorb more solar heat. Scientists found this occurring as a result ancient volcanic eruptions, and they want to bring attention to this matter and have people understand that there is a link between the two events. The article talks about how “ash deposition would remove between 20 centimeters and almost one meter of ice from the surface of the highest parts of the ice sheet” (The Earth). These findings make that link clear.

This issue matters because ice sheets today are extremely vulnerable to volcanic eruptions, and the melting of ice sheets can have various effects. It can lead to extreme difficulties for land animals, but it can also lead to more marine life. Algae and bacteria can evolve in these melted ponds and provides food for marine animals. (Shivali). And nutrients enter the pond and allow the algae and microorganisms to flourish. Additionally, when the ice melts, light can enter the water, allowing the algae to grow. Wind can also reach the water since the ice is melted, which mixes the nutrients that are deep down in the water (Shivali). Melting ice sheets do in fact have an effect on the environment, and people should be on the lookout for the long lasting effects volcanic eruptions can have.

 

Shivali. “The Surprising Benefit of Melting Sea Ice in the Arctic: Pools of Water May Help Marine Life to Flourish.” Daily Mail Online, Associated Newspapers, 3 Apr. 2017, www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-4375288/The-surprising-benefit-melting-ice-Arctic.html.

The Earth Institute at Columbia University. “Ice sheets may melt rapidly in response to distant volcanoes: Study of ancient eruptions shows modern ice sheets could be vulnerable.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 24 October 2017. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/10/171024110659.htm>.