World's Biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is stationary north of Antarctica due to a Taylor Column, rotating slowly. It may delay decay, emphasizing the need for further oceanographic research on seafloor dynamics.
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A23a, the world's largest iceberg, has been spinning in place just north of Antarctica for several months, trapped in a phenomenon known as a Taylor Column. This iceberg, which is over twice the size of Greater London, has not moved as expected despite being in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, a powerful ocean current. Instead, it remains stationary, rotating anti-clockwise at about 15 degrees a day. A23a has a long history, having broken free from the Antarctic coastline in 1986 and initially becoming stuck in the Weddell Sea for three decades before re-floating in 2020.
Currently, it is situated above a submerged feature called Pirie Bank, which creates the conditions for the Taylor Column, preventing the iceberg from drifting into warmer waters. Scientists note that A23a's continued presence in this state may delay its decay, as it is not grounded and has significant water depth beneath it. The phenomenon of Taylor Columns, first described by physicist Sir G.I. Taylor, illustrates the complex interactions between ocean currents and seafloor topography, which can influence marine ecosystems and climate systems. Understanding these dynamics is crucial, as only a quarter of the Earth's seafloor has been mapped to modern standards, highlighting the need for further exploration and research in oceanography.
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Biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is spinning north of Antarctica due to a Taylor Column. It remains largely intact despite crumbling edges, raising scientific interest in ocean dynamics and climate implications.
World's biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is trapped in a Taylor Column north of Antarctica, rotating slowly while highlighting the importance of seafloor topography in ocean dynamics and climate change.
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Biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is spinning north of Antarctica due to a Taylor Column. It remains largely intact despite crumbling edges, raising scientific interest in ocean dynamics and climate implications.
World's biggest iceberg spins in ocean trap
A23a, the largest iceberg, is trapped in a Taylor Column north of Antarctica, rotating slowly while highlighting the importance of seafloor topography in ocean dynamics and climate change.