Scientists have issued a warning about melting ice sheets in Antarctica, but it’s not just about sea-level rise. A new study reveals that as Antarctic ice melts due to climate change, it can trigger hidden volcanic eruptions beneath the surface. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle where volcanic activity accelerates further ice melt.
Researchers conducted 4,000 computer simulations to examine the relationship between gradual ice melt and buried magma chambers. The results show that melting ice relieves pressure on rocks below, allowing compressed magma to expand and increase pressure on chamber walls. This process is similar to opening a soda bottle – as ice melts, gases dissolved in magma are released, building pressure in the chamber.
The feedback mechanism operates over centuries, meaning its effects could persist even if greenhouse gas emissions are drastically reduced. Historical evidence suggests that similar processes occurred during the last ice age when Antarctica’s ice sheet was thicker. Eruptions beneath the ice sheet can add to melting, exacerbating the challenges already posed by rising global temperatures.
With Antarctica’s ice sheet already contributing significantly to rising sea levels globally, an increase in volcanic activity could further amplify this problem. The slow but persistent nature of these changes raises concerns about Antarctica’s long-term stability.
Source: https://www.gbnews.com/science/scientists-issue-warning-melting-antarctica-ice