Antarctica: Secrets, Bases, and Rules of the Frozen Continent
- Marcelo Serafim
- Sep 17
- 4 min read
Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth, covered by a vast sheet of ice that represents around 70% of the world’s freshwater. Despite its harsh climate and remote location, it has become a place of great interest for scientists, explorers, and governments alike. The continent hides secrets beneath its ice, including subglacial lakes, potential microbial life, and untapped mineral resources.
One of the greatest mysteries of Antarctica lies under its thick ice sheets. Scientists have discovered hidden mountain ranges, valleys, and freshwater lakes, such as Lake Vostok, which has been sealed off from the atmosphere for millions of years. Studying these ecosystems might provide clues about life on other planets or moons, such as Europa or Enceladus.
Antarctica does not belong to any single country. Instead, it is governed by an international agreement called the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959 by 12 countries and now supported by over 50. This treaty designates Antarctica as a place for peace and science, banning military activities and mineral mining while promoting international cooperation.
The Antarctic Treaty ensures that no country can claim ownership of the continent. However, several countries, including the United Kingdom, Argentina, Chile, and Australia, have territorial claims that are recognized only by themselves. The treaty suspends these disputes and ensures that the focus remains on scientific research rather than politics.
There are more than 70 research bases scattered across Antarctica, operated by different countries. These stations are used for studies in fields such as climate change, astronomy, geology, glaciology, and biology. Some of the most famous ones include McMurdo Station (USA), Esperanza Base (Argentina), and Vostok Station (Russia).
Life at these bases is very different from anywhere else on Earth. People living there, mostly scientists and support staff, face extreme cold, isolation, and long periods of darkness during the polar winter. Their daily activities include conducting experiments, maintaining equipment, monitoring wildlife, and ensuring the survival of their teams in such a harsh environment.
Interestingly, Antarctica has no permanent residents, only temporary inhabitants who rotate in and out depending on the season. During the summer, the population can reach up to 5,000 people, but in the winter, it drops to around 1,000. Supplies are brought by ship or aircraft, and internet connections are often limited and expensive.
The rules of Antarctica are strict. Visitors must follow environmental guidelines, such as not disturbing wildlife, not leaving trash behind, and avoiding the introduction of non-native species. These rules protect the fragile ecosystem, which could be easily damaged by human activity.
Antarctica also plays a crucial role in the Earth’s climate. Its ice sheets reflect sunlight, helping regulate global temperatures, while its glaciers contain records of past climate changes trapped in ice cores. Scientists study these cores to understand global warming and predict future environmental challenges.
In conclusion, Antarctica is not just a frozen desert; it is a land of secrets, scientific discoveries, and international cooperation. It belongs to no one, yet it belongs to everyone as a shared space for peace and knowledge. The rules that govern it remind us of the importance of protecting our planet’s most fragile environments for the generations to come.
Questions
What is the Antarctic Treaty, and what does it regulate?
Why is Lake Vostok considered one of the greatest mysteries of Antarctica?
How many people live in Antarctica during the summer and winter seasons?
What are some of the scientific fields studied in Antarctic research bases?
Why is Antarctica important for understanding global climate change?
Vocabulary
Subglacial – Located beneath a glacier or ice sheet.
Ecosystem – A community of living organisms interacting with their environment.
Treaty – A formal agreement between countries.
Territorial claim – A declaration by a country that it owns a specific area of land.
Glaciology – The scientific study of glaciers and ice.
Fragile – Easily broken or damaged.
Isolation – The state of being separated from others.
Regulate – To control or maintain according to rules.
Inhabitants – People who live in a particular place.
Expedition – A journey with a specific purpose, often scientific or exploratory.
Phrasal Verb
“Carry out” – To perform or complete a task, duty, or experiment.
Scientists carry out experiments at Antarctic bases.
The research team carried out a study on penguin populations.
American Idiom
“Cold as ice” – Extremely cold in temperature or emotion.
In Antarctica, the winds feel cold as ice.
Her reaction to the news was cold as ice, showing no emotion.
English Grammar Tip
Use of "There is / There are"
Use there is for singular and uncountable nouns.
Use there are for plural nouns.Examples:
There is a research station in Antarctica.
There are many scientists working on climate studies.
Listening
Homework Proposal
Write a short essay (150–200 words) explaining why Antarctica should be protected and what lessons humanity can learn from the international cooperation that governs the continent. Use at least three vocabulary words, the phrasal verb “carry out”, and the idiom “cold as ice” in your text.
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