I am lighter than the material i am made of you see parts of me but more of me is hidden underneath what am i iceberg

I am lighter than the material I am made of. You see parts of me but more of me is hidden underneath. What am I? @ Iceberg

Icebergs are majestic natural wonders found in the Earth’s polar regions. They are large masses of ice that have broken off from glaciers or ice sheets and float freely in the water. Although they may appear massive and solid, icebergs hold a fascinating secret hidden beneath the surface.

Icebergs are composed of frozen freshwater, which is much lighter than the seawater in which they float. This remarkable fact allows icebergs to stay afloat with only a small portion visible above the waterline. In fact, only about 10% of an iceberg is visible, while a staggering 90% remains hidden beneath the water’s surface.

This hidden part of the iceberg, called the submerged portion, is essential for maintaining stability and balance. It acts as a counterweight, preventing the iceberg from toppling over due to its weight and ensuring it remains relatively upright. The submerged section also provides a protective shield for marine life, serving as a habitat for various organisms.

An iceberg’s impressive size and shape are partly determined by the underwater portion. It is this hidden mass that influences the iceberg’s buoyancy and determines how it will behave in the water. Some icebergs have a unique “tabular” shape, featuring a flat top and vertical sides, while others showcase beautiful and intricate formations with stunning blue hues.

Icebergs are not permanent structures; they gradually melt and eventually disappear into the ocean. As they melt, the proportion of the hidden ice diminishes, causing changes in the iceberg’s stability and appearance. This transformation serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and the continuous cycle of change.

The captivating nature of icebergs has attracted humans for centuries. They have been the subject of countless photographs, artworks, and exploration expeditions. Tourists travel far and wide to catch a glimpse of these titanic ice masses, marveling at their sheer size and the surreal beauty they display.

The presence of icebergs also highlights the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on the Earth’s polar regions. As global temperatures rise, polar ice melts at an alarming rate, leading to rising sea levels and significant ecological consequences. The stark visibility of icebergs serves as a visual representation of the warming planet and acts as a catalyst for raising awareness about environmental issues.

In conclusion, icebergs are a symbol of both wonder and concern. They are lighter than the material they are made of, with more of their mass hidden beneath the water’s surface. Despite their captivating appearance, they hold the key to understanding our planet’s complex relationship with the environment. So next time you come across an iceberg, remember that there is much more to explore beneath its icy exterior.

*Note: This article is for informational purposes only. For scientific research or additional information, please refer to credible sources such as the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) at nsidc.org.