What is an ice shelf?

Q: What is an ice shelf?


A: An ice shelf is a large platform of ice that forms where a glacier flows down to a coastline.

Q: How thick is an ice shelf?


A: An ice shelf is usually very thick, usually 100 metres (330 ft) or more.

Q: Do all ice shelves float on the water?


A: Yes, some ice shelves float on the water.

Q: Are ice shelves that float usually thicker or thinner?


A: Ice shelves that float are usually much thinner.

Q: Where are the biggest areas of ice shelf located?


A: The biggest areas of ice shelf are in Antarctica.

Q: Why are ice shelves so thick?


A: Ice shelves are thick because they are formed by the accumulation of snow and ice over time.

Q: What happens to an ice shelf when it melts?


A: When an ice shelf melts, it can cause the sea level to rise, which can lead to flooding and other problems for coastal communities.

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