Overview
Permafrost is a critical component of the Earth's climate system, acting as a carbon reservoir that influences global temperatures. As climate change accelerates, permafrost is thawing, releasing greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide, which further exacerbate global warming. This process ...
Key Terms
Example: Permafrost is found in Arctic regions.
Example: Carbon dioxide and methane are major greenhouse gases.
Example: Thawing permafrost can release trapped carbon.
Example: The tundra ecosystem is affected by permafrost thaw.
Example: Thawing permafrost releases methane, which warms the atmosphere further.
Example: Thawing permafrost alters local hydrology.
Related Topics
Climate Change Mitigation
Strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming.
intermediateArctic Ecosystems
Study of ecosystems in the Arctic and how they are affected by climate change.
intermediateSoil Science
Understanding soil properties and processes, including permafrost dynamics.
advancedKey Concepts
Permafrost formationThawing effectsGreenhouse gas releaseEcosystem impacts