Ice tongue meaning

An ice tongue is a long, narrow strip of ice projecting out from the coastline into the sea.


Ice tongue definitions

Word backwards eci eugnot
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "ice tongue" is: ice - tongue
Plural The plural of the word "ice tongue" is "ice tongues."
Total letters 9
Vogais (4) i,e,o,u
Consonants (4) c,t,n,g

What is an Ice Tongue?

An ice tongue is a long and narrow strip of ice that extends out from a larger glacier or ice sheet into the ocean. These formations are usually found in polar regions, such as Antarctica or Greenland. Ice tongues can vary in size and shape, with some reaching several kilometers in length.

Formation Process of Ice Tongues

Ice tongues are formed when a glacier flows into the sea and continues to advance due to the pressure of the ice behind it. As the ice meets the warmer water of the ocean, it begins to melt and break off into the water, creating the long, narrow extension of ice known as an ice tongue.

Characteristics of Ice Tongues

Ice tongues are typically flat on top and can be several hundred meters thick. They often have deep crevasses and cracks on the surface, created as the ice moves and breaks apart. Because they are connected to a larger glacier or ice sheet, ice tongues can be influenced by the movement of the ice behind them.

Ecological Importance of Ice Tongues

Ice tongues play a crucial role in the polar ecosystem. They provide a platform for various marine species, such as seals and seabirds, to rest and breed. The melting of ice tongues also contributes to the circulation of nutrients in the ocean, supporting the growth of phytoplankton and other marine life.

Threats to Ice Tongues

Climate change poses a significant threat to ice tongues as rising temperatures lead to the accelerated melting of ice. As a result, ice tongues are shrinking in size and retreating at a faster rate than they can advance. This not only impacts the ecosystem that relies on ice tongues but also contributes to rising sea levels.

Research and Monitoring of Ice Tongues

Scientists closely monitor ice tongues to better understand their dynamics and the impact of climate change on these formations. Advanced satellite imaging and field observations help researchers track changes in ice tongues over time and predict future trends in their behavior.


Ice tongue Examples

  1. The ice tongue extended from the glacier into the sea.
  2. The ship had to navigate carefully around the ice tongue to avoid a collision.
  3. Scientists studied the movement of the ice tongue to understand its impact on climate change.
  4. The ice tongue broke off from the glacier, creating a massive iceberg.
  5. Explorers discovered a hidden cave behind the ice tongue.
  6. The ice tongue acted as a barrier, preventing access to the bay.
  7. The ice tongue was a stunning sight, glistening in the sunlight.
  8. The ice tongue slowly melted away in the summer heat.
  9. A colony of seals made their home on the edge of the ice tongue.
  10. The ice tongue carved a path through the landscape, leaving a trail of destruction.


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  • Updated 24/03/2024 - 19:16:43