Topic 1 Glossary: What makes Antarctica so cool?

Key vocabulary terms and definitions covering environmental, geographic, and scientific concepts related to Antarctica.

Adaptation

The changes organisms undergo to better survive in their environment.

Albedo

A measure of how much light a surface reflects.

Conservation

The careful protection and management of natural resources, wildlife and the environment.

Exploitation (Environmental)

Unsustainable use of natural resources for economic gain, often without regard for the long term health of the environment.

Explorer

A person who travels to new places to discover and learn about them.

Fauna

The animals of a particular region, habitat or geological period.

Flora

All plant life in a specific area or region or during a particular time.

Mining

Extracting valuable materials from the Earth.

Permafrost

A ground that stays completely frozen for at least 2 years.

Polar Biome

A cold, snowy, icy biome typically relating to the North or South Pole.

Tourism

The activities of people travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment.

Treaty

Legally binding agreement between 2 or more countries that establishes mutual obligations and benefits.

Vexillology

Study of flags.

Weather

Short term atmospheric weather conditions at a specific day/time.