Ice sheets are massive, thick layers of ice that cover large areas of land, primarily found in polar regions. The two largest ice sheets are located in Antarctica and Greenland. These sheets form over thousands of years as snow accumulates and compresses into ice, creating a dense, solid mass. Ice sheets play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and sea levels.
As ice sheets melt due to rising global temperatures, they contribute to rising sea levels, which can lead to coastal flooding and other environmental impacts. Scientists study ice sheets to understand climate change and predict future changes in sea levels. Monitoring these ice formations is essential for assessing the health of our planet.