As one of the strongest convection bands in the Southern Hemisphere,the South Pacific Convergence Zone(SPCZ)substantially influences the variabilities in the atmospheric circulation and Antarctic climate.In this study...As one of the strongest convection bands in the Southern Hemisphere,the South Pacific Convergence Zone(SPCZ)substantially influences the variabilities in the atmospheric circulation and Antarctic climate.In this study,it is revealed that the intensity of the SPCZ can change the characteristics of sea ice in the West Antarctica during austral autumn,which is significantly independent of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO).Observational and numerical results suggest that a stronger-than-usual SPCZ can generate a poleward-propagating Rossby wave train along a great circular route and induce a weakening of the Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)near West Antarctica,which may somewhat offset the teleconnections exerted by ENSO.These changes in the strength and zonal extent of ASL is noticeable and robustly lead to a tripole response of sea-ice perturbations in the Ross,Amundsen,and Weddell Seas.We find that the wind-driven dynamical processes determine the local sea-ice changes,while the influence from thermodynamic processes is trivial.This research underscores the need to consider the SPCZ variability for a comprehensive understanding of sea-ice changes in West Antarctica on interannual timescales.展开更多
This study investigates trends in extreme precipitation events(EPEs)across Antarctica from 1979 to 2023,analyzing changes in EPE frequency,intensity,and the proportion of extreme to total precipitation.Using Self-Orga...This study investigates trends in extreme precipitation events(EPEs)across Antarctica from 1979 to 2023,analyzing changes in EPE frequency,intensity,and the proportion of extreme to total precipitation.Using Self-Organizing Map(SOM)techniques,the study distinguishes the contributions from thermodynamic,dynamic,and interaction components in explaining these trends.Positive EPE occurrence trends are observed across the Bellingshausen and Weddell Seas,Dronning Maud Land,and parts of the Southern Ocean,with declines limited to Queen Mary Land.Thermodynamic factors,responsible for 96.0%of the overall trend,are driven by increased water vapor content in polar air masses.Dynamic contributions,representing 10.8%,are linked to a strengthened Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)associated with the Southern Annular Mode(SAM)and Pacific South American(PSA)trends.Interaction effects make a slightly negative contribution(-6.8%)to the overall trend.Variations in water vapor transport and vertical velocity tied to annual 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies further explain EPE trends.These findings provide insight into the atmospheric processes that influence Antarctic EPEs,with implications for understanding the climatic impact on the polar environment.展开更多
Blowing snow events in Antarctica play an important role in the climate system,affecting the mass balance of the ice sheet and the radiative effects of the atmosphere.Due to the harsh weather conditions in Antarctica,...Blowing snow events in Antarctica play an important role in the climate system,affecting the mass balance of the ice sheet and the radiative effects of the atmosphere.Due to the harsh weather conditions in Antarctica,ground-based detection data is deficient,making it difficult to accurately obtain both the frequency of blowing snow and the evolution of the height of the blowing snow layer.In this study,we introduce a new method based on the raw signal from the C12 ceilometer to separate clear-sky,cloud,snowfall,and blowing snow conditions within a height of 500 meters above the surface of Zhongshan Station.Research has shown that more than 80%of the blowing snow at Zhongshan Station is affected by cyclonic systems,and less than 20%of the blowing snow is affected by katabatic winds.Further,Antarctic blowing snow is closely related to snowfall.When there is heavy snowfall(even a blizzard),a smaller wind speed can lead to the formation of a deep blowing snow layer within an hour after snowfall.However,as time increases,the threshold wind speed required to generate blowing snow significantly increases,and the thickness of the blowing snow layer becomes shallower.展开更多
Antarctic clouds and their vertical structures play a significant role in influencing the regional radiation budget and ice mass balance;however,substantial uncertainties persist.Continuous monitoring and research are...Antarctic clouds and their vertical structures play a significant role in influencing the regional radiation budget and ice mass balance;however,substantial uncertainties persist.Continuous monitoring and research are essential for enhancing our understanding of these clouds.This study presents an analysis of cloud occurrence frequency and cloud-base heights(CBHs)at Zhongshan Station in East Antarctica for the first time,utilizing data from a C12 ceilometer covering the period from January 2022 to December 2023.The findings indicate that low clouds dominate at Zhongshan Station,with an average cloud occurrence frequency of 75%.Both the cloud occurrence frequency and CBH distribution exhibit distinct seasonal variations.Specifically,the cloud occurrence frequency during winter is higher than that observed in summer,while winter clouds can develop to greater heights.Over the Southern Ocean,the cloud occurrence frequency during summer surpasses that at Zhongshan Station,with clouds featuring lower CBHs and larger extinction coefficients.Furthermore,it is noteworthy that CBHs derived from the ceilometer are basically consistent with those obtained from radiosondes.Importantly,ERA5 demonstrates commendable performance in retrieving CBHs at Zhongshan Station when compared with ceilometer measurements.展开更多
A three-dimensional coupled sea ice-ice shelf-ocean numerical model is developed for the Prydz Bay,Antarctica,using the Regional Ocean Modeling System with a grid resolution of approximately 2 km.The influence of the ...A three-dimensional coupled sea ice-ice shelf-ocean numerical model is developed for the Prydz Bay,Antarctica,using the Regional Ocean Modeling System with a grid resolution of approximately 2 km.The influence of the grounding giant iceberg D15 on the distribution of sea ice and polynyas in the Prydz Bay is analyzed through two numerical experiments.Iceberg D15,grounded off the western edge of the West Ice Shelf(WIS),obstructs the southwestward transport of sea ice along the east coast of Prydz Bay,causing sea ice to accumulate to the east of the iceberg and form multi-year fast ice.Grounding of Iceberg D15 also decreases sea ice coverage off its south edge and creates ice-free openings in spring near Davis Station and Zhongshan Station,facilitating the accessibility of vessels to the research stations.These simulated sea ice patterns closely match current satellite observations.When Iceberg D15 is removed,the previously blocked sea ice north of the iceberg,which moved westward,shifts southwesterly along the coastline,leading to a reduction in sea ice thickness during winter and spring,as well as lower sea ice concentrations in spring across large areas north and west of the iceberg.In contrast,the sea ice thickness increases considerably southwest of the WIS,extending to the front of the Amery Ice Shelf during seasons covered by sea ice.The increase in sea ice concentration can also extend to as far as 75°E in spring.Without Iceberg D15,which previously contributed to the ice barrier of Barrier Polynya(BP),the shape of BP changes,the area of BP and Davis Polynya(DP)decreases,and the polynya off the northwest edge of the WIS near 83°E expands.These polynya patterns are much similar to the satellite remote sensing observations before Iceberg D15 was grounded.From April to October,the total area of BP and DP decreases by 2.83×10^(4)km^(2)(60%)and 2.20×10^(3)km^(2)(20%),respectively,while the total sea ice production decreases by 4.11×10^(10)m^(3)(66%)and 1.52×10^(10)m^(3)(52%)compared to the experiment with iceberg.These results indicate the substantial effects of grounding giant icebergs on the spatio-temporal distribution of sea ice,the area of polynyas,and sea ice production.High-resolution Antarctic coastal numerical models,typically with grid scales of kilometers,are sufficient to represent large icebergs,and adding the grounding giant icebergs is crucial for producing realistic simulations of sea ice and polynyas.展开更多
A seismic swarm occurred southeast of King George Island,South Shetland Islands,Antarctica,between August 2020 and February 2021.This work intends to parameterize seismic events recorded by seismic station AM.R4DE2 fr...A seismic swarm occurred southeast of King George Island,South Shetland Islands,Antarctica,between August 2020 and February 2021.This work intends to parameterize seismic events recorded by seismic station AM.R4DE2 from 15 September to 31 October 2020.Using the localization methodology with a single station,the record of the entire period was analyzed manually to determine the local magnitude,hypocentral distance,epicentral distance,backazimuth,and location of the epicenter for each event.We could parameterize 6362 events,although we estimate the occurrence to be around 20000 for the period.The results suggest a magmatic origin for the swarm,supporting previous studies.Seismicity exhibited a southeastward migration away from King George Island,as indicated by a progressive increase in epicentral distance over time.Most events were classified as volcanic and volcano-tectonic,supporting a magmatogenesis hypothesis linked to the opening of Bransfield Ridge.展开更多
Geomorphometric modeling and mapping of Antarctic oases are promising for obtaining new quantitative knowledge about the topography of these unique landscapes and for the further use of morphometric information in Ant...Geomorphometric modeling and mapping of Antarctic oases are promising for obtaining new quantitative knowledge about the topography of these unique landscapes and for the further use of morphometric information in Antarctic research.Within the framework of a project to create a thematic physical-geographical scientific reference geomorphometric atlas of ice-free areas of Antarctica,we performed geomorphometric modeling and mapping of the Bunger Hills(Knox Coast,Wilkes Land,East Antarctica),one of the largest Antarctic oases.By processing a fragment of the Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica(REMA)covering the Bunger Hills and adjacent glaciers,we created,for the first time,a series of 37 medium-to large-scale maps of nine of the most scientifically important morphometric variables(i.e.,slope gradient,slope aspect,vertical curvature,horizontal curvature,maximal curvature,minimal curvature,catchment area,topographic wetness index,and stream power index).The morphometric maps describe the topography of the Bunger Hills in a quantitative,rigorous,and reproducible manner.New morphometric data can be useful for further geological,geomorphological,glaciological,ecological,and hydrological studies of this Antarctic oasis.展开更多
The measurement of trace elements in Antarctic snow is crucial for understanding historical atmospheric geochemical changes and circulation patterns.However,studies on their spatial distributions remain limited,partic...The measurement of trace elements in Antarctic snow is crucial for understanding historical atmospheric geochemical changes and circulation patterns.However,studies on their spatial distributions remain limited,particularly those evaluating multiple metals across several snowpits,making interpretation challenging.This study investigates the distributions and sources of trace elements-including Cd,Ba,Pb,U,Bi,V,Mn,Fe,Cu,Zn,and As-across four snowpits in the Lambert Glacier Basin,East Antarctica.The trace elements exhibit site-,element-,and season-dependent variations,with higher concentrations observed at inland sites.In contrast,δ^(18)O and ion concentrations decrease with increasing distance from the coast and elevation,underscoring the influence of marine emissions.Crustal sources primarily contributed to Ba,U,V,Mn,and Fe,while non-crustal sources predominantly contributed to Cd,Bi,Zn,Pb,Cu,and As.Positive matrix factorization(PMF)analysis indicates that trace element concentrations in Pits 2 and 3 are influenced by both crustal and non-crustal sources,while Pit 4 reflects a mixed-source influence.Pit 1(coastal site)also indicates the mixed sources with influence of a highly dynamic marine climate and environment.The PMF results reveal similarities in emission sources and atmospheric transport patterns across the snowpits,facilitating a more comprehensive interpretation of longer ice core records.Overall,this study provides valuable insights into trace element distributions and enhances our understanding of past environmental and climatic conditions.展开更多
The characteristics of modified Circumpolar Deep Water(mCDW)on the continental shelf in Prydz Bay,East Antarctica,are studied based on hydrographic data obtained by the Chinese National Antarctic Research Expeditions ...The characteristics of modified Circumpolar Deep Water(mCDW)on the continental shelf in Prydz Bay,East Antarctica,are studied based on hydrographic data obtained by the Chinese National Antarctic Research Expeditions across 14 summers from 1999 to 2022.In austral summer,the mCDW upwells along the upper continental slope then intrudes on the continental shelf across the shelf break in a warm tongue that gradually upwells poleward.The mCDW intrusion at the 73°E section is relatively weaker in December and stronger in February while showing significant interannual variability.During strong intrusions(January 2000 and February 2003),the mCDW extends southward to 68°S and upwells to 50 m,whereas the mCDW only reaches the shelf break during weak intrusions(December 2004,January 2006,January 2011,and February 2015).The intensity of the mCDW intrusions correlates strongly with the accumulated wind stress curl(30 days prior)north of the shelf break(73.5°-78.0°E,64.5°-66.0°S).The summertime westerly winds play a key role in regulating the interannual variability of mCDW intrusion onto the continental shelf.A southward shift of the westerly winds promotes the upwelling and southward intrusion of mCDW across the shelf break.In addition,mCDW at 73°E can reach as far as 68°S due to the southward flow of mCDW being hindered by a northward outflowing branch of the coastal current at the Amery Ice Shelf(AIS)front.In austral summer,the mCDW had never been observed at the section along the AIS front;thus,it cannot directly contribute to the basal melting of the ice shelf.展开更多
Dissolved organic carbon(DOC)constitutes the largest organic carbon reservoir in the ocean and plays a vital role in the oceanic carbon cycle.However,research on DOC in Antarctica has been limited,largely due to diffi...Dissolved organic carbon(DOC)constitutes the largest organic carbon reservoir in the ocean and plays a vital role in the oceanic carbon cycle.However,research on DOC in Antarctica has been limited,largely due to difficulties in sample collection.In this study,we investigate chromophoric dissolved organic matter(CDOM)in the Cosmonaut Sea and Cooperation Sea,Antarctica.The relative abundances of CDOM,as indicated by the absorption coefficient at 254 nm(a_(254)),exhibit significant variability,ranging from 1.29 m^(-1) to 8.37 m^(-1).The diatom species B is the primary contributor to CDOM in the region influenced by the Antarctic slope current.Using excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with parallel factor analysis(EEM-PARAFAC),we identify three fluorescent components:one protein-like component(C1)and two humic-like components(C2 and C3).Our findings indicate that strong microbial activity in the euphotic zones of the Cosmonaut Sea and Cooperation Sea serves as a primary pathway for the removal of protein-like substances while also acting as a significant source of humic-like substances.Microbial degradation likely accounts for the decoupling of the vertical distribution of DOC and phytoplankton.Furthermore,the intrusion of modified circumpolar deep water(mCDW)into the euphotic zones of open ocean areas influences the distribution of CDOM at depths shallower than 200 m.These results have important implications for enhancing our understanding of the dynamics of CDOM and DOC in east Antarctica,as well as for improving assessments of the carbon cycle.展开更多
The cell density, species composition and distribution of phytoplankton, and their relations to environmental factors in Prydz Bay and its adjacent sea area, Antarctica (69degrees-77degrees E, 62degrees-70degrees S) d...The cell density, species composition and distribution of phytoplankton, and their relations to environmental factors in Prydz Bay and its adjacent sea area, Antarctica (69degrees-77degrees E, 62degrees-70degrees S) during the austral summer of 1998/1999 were investigated. A total of 48 taxa belonging to 21 genera of phytoplankton in the sea area were identified. The average cell density of phytoplankton was 22.46 x 10(3) cells/dm(3), of which diatoms were predominant (84.51%). The highest cell density of phytoplankton occurred in Prydz Bay and the adjacent continental shelf where the average cell density was 46.03 x 10(3) cells/dm(3). The lowest cell density (3.34 x 10(3) cells/dm(3)) occurred in deep sea area. The dominant species of phytoplankton was Fragilariopsis curta. The vertical distribution of phytoplankton density was highest in the upper part of 0-50 in depth, lower in 100 in and lowest in 150 in. The species composition and cell density of phytoplankton were influenced by water circulation. The cell density was positively correlated with water temperature and salinity, and negatively correlated with the concentration of nutrients.展开更多
We present the results of two ground-based radio-echo-sounding（RES） and GPS surveys performed in the vicinity of new Chinese Taishan station,Princess Elizabeth Land,East Antarctica,obtained in two austral summers du...We present the results of two ground-based radio-echo-sounding（RES） and GPS surveys performed in the vicinity of new Chinese Taishan station,Princess Elizabeth Land,East Antarctica,obtained in two austral summers during CHINARE 21（2004/2005） and CHINARE 29（2012/2013）.The radar surveys measured ice thickness and internal layers using 60- and 150-MHz radar systems,and GPS measurements showed smooth surface slopes around the station with altitudes of 2607-2636 m above sea level（a.s.l.）.Radar profiles indicate an average ice thickness of 1900 m,with a maximum of 1949 m and a minimum of 1856 m,within a square area measuring approximately 2 km × 2 km in the vicinity of the station.The ice thickness beneath the station site is 1870 m.The subglacial landscape beneath the station is quiet sharp and ranges from 662 to 770 m a.s.l.,revealing part of a mountainous topography.The ice volume in the grid is estimated to be 7.6 km^3.Along a 60-MHz radar profile with a length of 17.6 km at the region covering the station site,some disturbed internal layers are identified and traced;the geometry of internal layers within the englacial stratigraphy may imply a complex depositional process in the area.展开更多
Although temperature extremes have led to more and more disasters, there are as yet few studies on the extremes and many disagreements on temperature changes in Antarctica. Based on daily minimum, maximum, and mean ai...Although temperature extremes have led to more and more disasters, there are as yet few studies on the extremes and many disagreements on temperature changes in Antarctica. Based on daily minimum, maximum, and mean air temperatures(Tmin, Tmax, Tmean) at Great Wall Station(GW) and Zhongshan Station(ZS), we compared the temperature extremes and revealed a strong warming trend in Tmin, a slight warming trend in Tmean, cooling in Tmax, a decreasing trend in the daily temperature range, and the typical characteristic of coreless winter temperature. There are different seasonal variabilities, with the least in summer. The continentality index and seasonality show that the marine air mass has more effect on GW than ZS. Following the terminology of the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC AR5), we defined nine indices of temperature extremes, based on the Antarctic geographical environment. Extreme-warm days have decreased, while extreme-warm nights have shown a nonsignificant trend. The number of melting days has increased at GW, while little change at ZS. More importantly, we have found inverse variations in temperature patterns between the two stations, which need further investigation into the dynamics of climate change in Antarctica.展开更多
In order to better understand the spatial and temporal distribution of dissolved cadmium in Prydz Bay, east Antarctica, seawaters were sampled by CTD during the CHINARE-25 cruise （Oct. 2008 - Apr. 2009） and the conc...In order to better understand the spatial and temporal distribution of dissolved cadmium in Prydz Bay, east Antarctica, seawaters were sampled by CTD during the CHINARE-25 cruise （Oct. 2008 - Apr. 2009） and the concentrations of cadmium were analyzed by AAS （Atomic Absorption Spectrometry） in the clean laboratory. Together with the data of macronutrients and chl.a from the same cruise, the relationship between cadmium and biological process was studied. The results showed that the concentrations of Cd in the surface water had a good relationship with chl.a and biologicl process was the important factor that influenced the distribution of dissolved Cd in the surface water. Linear relationship was found between dissolved Cd and phosphate in the surface water and the high ratio of Cd/P at the edge of ice shelf was most probably due to ice melting, vertical distribution of Cd was similar to those of macronutrient such as phosphate and was affected by decomposition of organic particals. The temporal change of dissolved Cd in upper layer was slight and tide probably had influence on the change.展开更多
Reported in this paper are the petrology and mineral chemistry of GRV 020090, the second Martian meteorite collected from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica. This meteorite, with a mass of 7.54 g, is completely covered b...Reported in this paper are the petrology and mineral chemistry of GRV 020090, the second Martian meteorite collected from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica. This meteorite, with a mass of 7.54 g, is completely covered by a black and glazy fusion crust. It has two distinct textural regions. The interstitial region is composed of euhedral grains of olivine, pigeonite, and anhedral interstitial maskelynite, with minor chromite, augite, phosphates and troilite. The poikilitic region consists of three clasts of pyroxenes, each of which has a pigeonite core and an augite rim. A few grains of subhedral to rounded olivine and euhedral chromite are enclosed in the pyroxene oikocrysts. GRV 020090 is classified as a new member of lherzolitic shergottites based on the modal composition and mineral chemistry. This work will shed light on the composition of Martian crust and magmatism on the Mars.展开更多
Three new carbonaceous chondrites (GRV 020025,021579 and 022459) collected from the Grove Mountains (GRV), Antarctica, have been classified as the CM2, CO3 and CV3 chondrites, respectively. A total of 27 Ca- and Al-ri...Three new carbonaceous chondrites (GRV 020025,021579 and 022459) collected from the Grove Mountains (GRV), Antarctica, have been classified as the CM2, CO3 and CV3 chondrites, respectively. A total of 27 Ca- and Al-rich inclusions have been found in the three meteorites, which are the earliest assemblages formed in the solar nebula. Most of the inclusions are intensively altered, with abundant phyllosilicates in the inclusions from GRV 020025 and FeO enrichment of spinel in those from GRV 022459. Except for one spinel-spherule in each of GRV 020025 and 021579, all the inclusions can be classified as Type A-like or spinel-pyroxene-rich inclusions, and they probably represent the continuum of solar nebular condensation. In addition, most of the inclusions in these meteorites share much similarity in both petrography and mineral chemistry, suggesting a similar origin of Ca-Al-rich inclusions in various chondrites.展开更多
Petrography and mineral chemistry of 24 ordinary chondrites from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica, have been studied in order to identify their chemical-petrographic types. These samples were selected from a total of 4...Petrography and mineral chemistry of 24 ordinary chondrites from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica, have been studied in order to identify their chemical-petrographic types. These samples were selected from a total of 4448 Grove Mountains (GRV) meteorites collected during the 19th Chinese Antarctic Research Expedition so as to make an estimation of the large GRV meteorite collection. The chemical-petrographic types of these meteorites are presented below: 1 H3,2 H4, 4 H5, 2 H6, 1 L4, 7 L5, 5 L6, 1 LL4 and 1 LL6. The new data weaken the previous report that unequilibrated ordinary chondrites are unusually abundant in the Grove Mountains region. However, this work confirms significant differences in distribution patterns of chemical-petrographic types between the Grove Mountains and other regions in Antarctica. Many of these meteorites show significant terrestrial weathering, probably due to a high abundance ratio of meteorites found in moraines to those on blue ice. Nine meteorites experienced severe shock metamorphism, as evidenced by undulose extinction and intense fracturing of silicates and presence of shock-induced melt veins and pockets. These heavily shocked meteorites provided us with natural samples for the study of high-pressure polymorphs of minerals.展开更多
Annual observations of first-year ice(FYI) and second-year ice(SYI) near Zhongshan Station, East Antarctica,were conducted for the first time from December 2011 to December 2012. Melt ponds appeared from early Decembe...Annual observations of first-year ice(FYI) and second-year ice(SYI) near Zhongshan Station, East Antarctica,were conducted for the first time from December 2011 to December 2012. Melt ponds appeared from early December 2011. Landfast ice partly broke in late January, 2012 after a strong cyclone. Open water was refrozen to form new ice cover in mid-February, and then FYI and SYI co-existed in March with a growth rate of 0.8 cm/d for FYI and a melting rate of 2.7 cm/d for SYI. This difference was due to the oceanic heat flux and the thickness of ice,with weaker heat flux through thicker ice. From May onward, FYI and SYI showed a similar growth by 0.5 cm/d.Their maximum thickness reached 160.5 cm and 167.0 cm, respectively, in late October. Drillings showed variations of FYI thickness to be generally less than 1.0 cm, but variations were up to 33.0 cm for SYI in March,suggesting that the SYI bottom was particularly uneven. Snow distribution was strongly affected by wind and surface roughness, leading to large thickness differences in the different sites. Snow and ice thickness in Nella Fjord had a similar "east thicker, west thinner" spatial distribution. Easterly prevailing wind and local topography led to this snow pattern. Superimposed ice induced by snow cover melting in summer thickened multi-year ice,causing it to be thicker than the snow-free SYI. The estimated monthly oceanic heat flux was ～30.0 W/m2 in March–May, reducing to ～10.0 W/m2 during July–October, and increasing to ～15.0 W/m2 in November. The seasonal change and mean value of 15.6 W/m2 was similar to the findings of previous research. The results can be used to further our understanding of landfast ice for climate change study and Chinese Antarctic Expedition services.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.42375024).
文摘As one of the strongest convection bands in the Southern Hemisphere,the South Pacific Convergence Zone(SPCZ)substantially influences the variabilities in the atmospheric circulation and Antarctic climate.In this study,it is revealed that the intensity of the SPCZ can change the characteristics of sea ice in the West Antarctica during austral autumn,which is significantly independent of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO).Observational and numerical results suggest that a stronger-than-usual SPCZ can generate a poleward-propagating Rossby wave train along a great circular route and induce a weakening of the Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)near West Antarctica,which may somewhat offset the teleconnections exerted by ENSO.These changes in the strength and zonal extent of ASL is noticeable and robustly lead to a tripole response of sea-ice perturbations in the Ross,Amundsen,and Weddell Seas.We find that the wind-driven dynamical processes determine the local sea-ice changes,while the influence from thermodynamic processes is trivial.This research underscores the need to consider the SPCZ variability for a comprehensive understanding of sea-ice changes in West Antarctica on interannual timescales.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFE0106300)Norges Forskningsråd(328886).
文摘This study investigates trends in extreme precipitation events(EPEs)across Antarctica from 1979 to 2023,analyzing changes in EPE frequency,intensity,and the proportion of extreme to total precipitation.Using Self-Organizing Map(SOM)techniques,the study distinguishes the contributions from thermodynamic,dynamic,and interaction components in explaining these trends.Positive EPE occurrence trends are observed across the Bellingshausen and Weddell Seas,Dronning Maud Land,and parts of the Southern Ocean,with declines limited to Queen Mary Land.Thermodynamic factors,responsible for 96.0%of the overall trend,are driven by increased water vapor content in polar air masses.Dynamic contributions,representing 10.8%,are linked to a strengthened Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)associated with the Southern Annular Mode(SAM)and Pacific South American(PSA)trends.Interaction effects make a slightly negative contribution(-6.8%)to the overall trend.Variations in water vapor transport and vertical velocity tied to annual 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies further explain EPE trends.These findings provide insight into the atmospheric processes that influence Antarctic EPEs,with implications for understanding the climatic impact on the polar environment.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2021YFC2802501)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.41875025,62105367,42175154,42305084)+1 种基金the Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.2021JJ10047,2020JJ4662)the Research Project of National University of Defense Technology(Grant No.202401-YJRC-XX-030)。
文摘Blowing snow events in Antarctica play an important role in the climate system,affecting the mass balance of the ice sheet and the radiative effects of the atmosphere.Due to the harsh weather conditions in Antarctica,ground-based detection data is deficient,making it difficult to accurately obtain both the frequency of blowing snow and the evolution of the height of the blowing snow layer.In this study,we introduce a new method based on the raw signal from the C12 ceilometer to separate clear-sky,cloud,snowfall,and blowing snow conditions within a height of 500 meters above the surface of Zhongshan Station.Research has shown that more than 80%of the blowing snow at Zhongshan Station is affected by cyclonic systems,and less than 20%of the blowing snow is affected by katabatic winds.Further,Antarctic blowing snow is closely related to snowfall.When there is heavy snowfall(even a blizzard),a smaller wind speed can lead to the formation of a deep blowing snow layer within an hour after snowfall.However,as time increases,the threshold wind speed required to generate blowing snow significantly increases,and the thickness of the blowing snow layer becomes shallower.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2021YFC2802501)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.42175154 and 42305084)+1 种基金the Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.2024JJ2058)Research Project of the National University of Defense Technology(Grant No.202401-YJRC-XX-030)。
文摘Antarctic clouds and their vertical structures play a significant role in influencing the regional radiation budget and ice mass balance;however,substantial uncertainties persist.Continuous monitoring and research are essential for enhancing our understanding of these clouds.This study presents an analysis of cloud occurrence frequency and cloud-base heights(CBHs)at Zhongshan Station in East Antarctica for the first time,utilizing data from a C12 ceilometer covering the period from January 2022 to December 2023.The findings indicate that low clouds dominate at Zhongshan Station,with an average cloud occurrence frequency of 75%.Both the cloud occurrence frequency and CBH distribution exhibit distinct seasonal variations.Specifically,the cloud occurrence frequency during winter is higher than that observed in summer,while winter clouds can develop to greater heights.Over the Southern Ocean,the cloud occurrence frequency during summer surpasses that at Zhongshan Station,with clouds featuring lower CBHs and larger extinction coefficients.Furthermore,it is noteworthy that CBHs derived from the ceilometer are basically consistent with those obtained from radiosondes.Importantly,ERA5 demonstrates commendable performance in retrieving CBHs at Zhongshan Station when compared with ceilometer measurements.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract Nos 41976217 and 42306249the National Key Research and Development Program of China under contract No.2018YFA0605701.
文摘A three-dimensional coupled sea ice-ice shelf-ocean numerical model is developed for the Prydz Bay,Antarctica,using the Regional Ocean Modeling System with a grid resolution of approximately 2 km.The influence of the grounding giant iceberg D15 on the distribution of sea ice and polynyas in the Prydz Bay is analyzed through two numerical experiments.Iceberg D15,grounded off the western edge of the West Ice Shelf(WIS),obstructs the southwestward transport of sea ice along the east coast of Prydz Bay,causing sea ice to accumulate to the east of the iceberg and form multi-year fast ice.Grounding of Iceberg D15 also decreases sea ice coverage off its south edge and creates ice-free openings in spring near Davis Station and Zhongshan Station,facilitating the accessibility of vessels to the research stations.These simulated sea ice patterns closely match current satellite observations.When Iceberg D15 is removed,the previously blocked sea ice north of the iceberg,which moved westward,shifts southwesterly along the coastline,leading to a reduction in sea ice thickness during winter and spring,as well as lower sea ice concentrations in spring across large areas north and west of the iceberg.In contrast,the sea ice thickness increases considerably southwest of the WIS,extending to the front of the Amery Ice Shelf during seasons covered by sea ice.The increase in sea ice concentration can also extend to as far as 75°E in spring.Without Iceberg D15,which previously contributed to the ice barrier of Barrier Polynya(BP),the shape of BP changes,the area of BP and Davis Polynya(DP)decreases,and the polynya off the northwest edge of the WIS near 83°E expands.These polynya patterns are much similar to the satellite remote sensing observations before Iceberg D15 was grounded.From April to October,the total area of BP and DP decreases by 2.83×10^(4)km^(2)(60%)and 2.20×10^(3)km^(2)(20%),respectively,while the total sea ice production decreases by 4.11×10^(10)m^(3)(66%)and 1.52×10^(10)m^(3)(52%)compared to the experiment with iceberg.These results indicate the substantial effects of grounding giant icebergs on the spatio-temporal distribution of sea ice,the area of polynyas,and sea ice production.High-resolution Antarctic coastal numerical models,typically with grid scales of kilometers,are sufficient to represent large icebergs,and adding the grounding giant icebergs is crucial for producing realistic simulations of sea ice and polynyas.
文摘A seismic swarm occurred southeast of King George Island,South Shetland Islands,Antarctica,between August 2020 and February 2021.This work intends to parameterize seismic events recorded by seismic station AM.R4DE2 from 15 September to 31 October 2020.Using the localization methodology with a single station,the record of the entire period was analyzed manually to determine the local magnitude,hypocentral distance,epicentral distance,backazimuth,and location of the epicenter for each event.We could parameterize 6362 events,although we estimate the occurrence to be around 20000 for the period.The results suggest a magmatic origin for the swarm,supporting previous studies.Seismicity exhibited a southeastward migration away from King George Island,as indicated by a progressive increase in epicentral distance over time.Most events were classified as volcanic and volcano-tectonic,supporting a magmatogenesis hypothesis linked to the opening of Bransfield Ridge.
文摘Geomorphometric modeling and mapping of Antarctic oases are promising for obtaining new quantitative knowledge about the topography of these unique landscapes and for the further use of morphometric information in Antarctic research.Within the framework of a project to create a thematic physical-geographical scientific reference geomorphometric atlas of ice-free areas of Antarctica,we performed geomorphometric modeling and mapping of the Bunger Hills(Knox Coast,Wilkes Land,East Antarctica),one of the largest Antarctic oases.By processing a fragment of the Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica(REMA)covering the Bunger Hills and adjacent glaciers,we created,for the first time,a series of 37 medium-to large-scale maps of nine of the most scientifically important morphometric variables(i.e.,slope gradient,slope aspect,vertical curvature,horizontal curvature,maximal curvature,minimal curvature,catchment area,topographic wetness index,and stream power index).The morphometric maps describe the topography of the Bunger Hills in a quantitative,rigorous,and reproducible manner.New morphometric data can be useful for further geological,geomorphological,glaciological,ecological,and hydrological studies of this Antarctic oasis.
基金supported by the Korea Polar Research Institute grant(PE25100)the National Research Foundation of Korea grant funded by the Korean Government(NRF2022R1A2C3007047)supported by Korea Institute of Marine Science&Technology Promotion(KIMST)and by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries(RS-2023-00256677,PM23020).
文摘The measurement of trace elements in Antarctic snow is crucial for understanding historical atmospheric geochemical changes and circulation patterns.However,studies on their spatial distributions remain limited,particularly those evaluating multiple metals across several snowpits,making interpretation challenging.This study investigates the distributions and sources of trace elements-including Cd,Ba,Pb,U,Bi,V,Mn,Fe,Cu,Zn,and As-across four snowpits in the Lambert Glacier Basin,East Antarctica.The trace elements exhibit site-,element-,and season-dependent variations,with higher concentrations observed at inland sites.In contrast,δ^(18)O and ion concentrations decrease with increasing distance from the coast and elevation,underscoring the influence of marine emissions.Crustal sources primarily contributed to Ba,U,V,Mn,and Fe,while non-crustal sources predominantly contributed to Cd,Bi,Zn,Pb,Cu,and As.Positive matrix factorization(PMF)analysis indicates that trace element concentrations in Pits 2 and 3 are influenced by both crustal and non-crustal sources,while Pit 4 reflects a mixed-source influence.Pit 1(coastal site)also indicates the mixed sources with influence of a highly dynamic marine climate and environment.The PMF results reveal similarities in emission sources and atmospheric transport patterns across the snowpits,facilitating a more comprehensive interpretation of longer ice core records.Overall,this study provides valuable insights into trace element distributions and enhances our understanding of past environmental and climatic conditions.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41976217)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2018YFA0605701).
文摘The characteristics of modified Circumpolar Deep Water(mCDW)on the continental shelf in Prydz Bay,East Antarctica,are studied based on hydrographic data obtained by the Chinese National Antarctic Research Expeditions across 14 summers from 1999 to 2022.In austral summer,the mCDW upwells along the upper continental slope then intrudes on the continental shelf across the shelf break in a warm tongue that gradually upwells poleward.The mCDW intrusion at the 73°E section is relatively weaker in December and stronger in February while showing significant interannual variability.During strong intrusions(January 2000 and February 2003),the mCDW extends southward to 68°S and upwells to 50 m,whereas the mCDW only reaches the shelf break during weak intrusions(December 2004,January 2006,January 2011,and February 2015).The intensity of the mCDW intrusions correlates strongly with the accumulated wind stress curl(30 days prior)north of the shelf break(73.5°-78.0°E,64.5°-66.0°S).The summertime westerly winds play a key role in regulating the interannual variability of mCDW intrusion onto the continental shelf.A southward shift of the westerly winds promotes the upwelling and southward intrusion of mCDW across the shelf break.In addition,mCDW at 73°E can reach as far as 68°S due to the southward flow of mCDW being hindered by a northward outflowing branch of the coastal current at the Amery Ice Shelf(AIS)front.In austral summer,the mCDW had never been observed at the section along the AIS front;thus,it cannot directly contribute to the basal melting of the ice shelf.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract Nos 42276255,41976228,42176227 and 42306262the National Polar Special Program under contract Nos IRASCC 01-01-02,IRASCC 02-02-03,and IRASCC 02-02-05the Scientific Research Fund of the Second Institute of Oceanography under contract Nos JG2211 and JG2212.
文摘Dissolved organic carbon(DOC)constitutes the largest organic carbon reservoir in the ocean and plays a vital role in the oceanic carbon cycle.However,research on DOC in Antarctica has been limited,largely due to difficulties in sample collection.In this study,we investigate chromophoric dissolved organic matter(CDOM)in the Cosmonaut Sea and Cooperation Sea,Antarctica.The relative abundances of CDOM,as indicated by the absorption coefficient at 254 nm(a_(254)),exhibit significant variability,ranging from 1.29 m^(-1) to 8.37 m^(-1).The diatom species B is the primary contributor to CDOM in the region influenced by the Antarctic slope current.Using excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with parallel factor analysis(EEM-PARAFAC),we identify three fluorescent components:one protein-like component(C1)and two humic-like components(C2 and C3).Our findings indicate that strong microbial activity in the euphotic zones of the Cosmonaut Sea and Cooperation Sea serves as a primary pathway for the removal of protein-like substances while also acting as a significant source of humic-like substances.Microbial degradation likely accounts for the decoupling of the vertical distribution of DOC and phytoplankton.Furthermore,the intrusion of modified circumpolar deep water(mCDW)into the euphotic zones of open ocean areas influences the distribution of CDOM at depths shallower than 200 m.These results have important implications for enhancing our understanding of the dynamics of CDOM and DOC in east Antarctica,as well as for improving assessments of the carbon cycle.
文摘The cell density, species composition and distribution of phytoplankton, and their relations to environmental factors in Prydz Bay and its adjacent sea area, Antarctica (69degrees-77degrees E, 62degrees-70degrees S) during the austral summer of 1998/1999 were investigated. A total of 48 taxa belonging to 21 genera of phytoplankton in the sea area were identified. The average cell density of phytoplankton was 22.46 x 10(3) cells/dm(3), of which diatoms were predominant (84.51%). The highest cell density of phytoplankton occurred in Prydz Bay and the adjacent continental shelf where the average cell density was 46.03 x 10(3) cells/dm(3). The lowest cell density (3.34 x 10(3) cells/dm(3)) occurred in deep sea area. The dominant species of phytoplankton was Fragilariopsis curta. The vertical distribution of phytoplankton density was highest in the upper part of 0-50 in depth, lower in 100 in and lowest in 150 in. The species composition and cell density of phytoplankton were influenced by water circulation. The cell density was positively correlated with water temperature and salinity, and negatively correlated with the concentration of nutrients.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.41376192,40906101)the National Basic Research Program of China(973 Program)(Grant No.2013CBA01804 and 2012CB957702)+2 种基金the Foreign Cooperation Support Program of Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration,SOA,China(Grand No.IC201214)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai,China(Grand No.13ZR1445300)the Chinese Polar Environment Comprehensive Investigation&Assessment Programmes(CHINARE2014-01-01)
文摘We present the results of two ground-based radio-echo-sounding（RES） and GPS surveys performed in the vicinity of new Chinese Taishan station,Princess Elizabeth Land,East Antarctica,obtained in two austral summers during CHINARE 21（2004/2005） and CHINARE 29（2012/2013）.The radar surveys measured ice thickness and internal layers using 60- and 150-MHz radar systems,and GPS measurements showed smooth surface slopes around the station with altitudes of 2607-2636 m above sea level（a.s.l.）.Radar profiles indicate an average ice thickness of 1900 m,with a maximum of 1949 m and a minimum of 1856 m,within a square area measuring approximately 2 km × 2 km in the vicinity of the station.The ice thickness beneath the station site is 1870 m.The subglacial landscape beneath the station is quiet sharp and ranges from 662 to 770 m a.s.l.,revealing part of a mountainous topography.The ice volume in the grid is estimated to be 7.6 km^3.Along a 60-MHz radar profile with a length of 17.6 km at the region covering the station site,some disturbed internal layers are identified and traced;the geometry of internal layers within the englacial stratigraphy may imply a complex depositional process in the area.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 41476164, 41671073, 41425003, and 41671063)the State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science
文摘Although temperature extremes have led to more and more disasters, there are as yet few studies on the extremes and many disagreements on temperature changes in Antarctica. Based on daily minimum, maximum, and mean air temperatures(Tmin, Tmax, Tmean) at Great Wall Station(GW) and Zhongshan Station(ZS), we compared the temperature extremes and revealed a strong warming trend in Tmin, a slight warming trend in Tmean, cooling in Tmax, a decreasing trend in the daily temperature range, and the typical characteristic of coreless winter temperature. There are different seasonal variabilities, with the least in summer. The continentality index and seasonality show that the marine air mass has more effect on GW than ZS. Following the terminology of the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC AR5), we defined nine indices of temperature extremes, based on the Antarctic geographical environment. Extreme-warm days have decreased, while extreme-warm nights have shown a nonsignificant trend. The number of melting days has increased at GW, while little change at ZS. More importantly, we have found inverse variations in temperature patterns between the two stations, which need further investigation into the dynamics of climate change in Antarctica.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China No. 41076134
文摘In order to better understand the spatial and temporal distribution of dissolved cadmium in Prydz Bay, east Antarctica, seawaters were sampled by CTD during the CHINARE-25 cruise （Oct. 2008 - Apr. 2009） and the concentrations of cadmium were analyzed by AAS （Atomic Absorption Spectrometry） in the clean laboratory. Together with the data of macronutrients and chl.a from the same cruise, the relationship between cadmium and biological process was studied. The results showed that the concentrations of Cd in the surface water had a good relationship with chl.a and biologicl process was the important factor that influenced the distribution of dissolved Cd in the surface water. Linear relationship was found between dissolved Cd and phosphate in the surface water and the high ratio of Cd/P at the edge of ice shelf was most probably due to ice melting, vertical distribution of Cd was similar to those of macronutrient such as phosphate and was affected by decomposition of organic particals. The temporal change of dissolved Cd in upper layer was slight and tide probably had influence on the change.
基金This work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.40232026)the pilot project of knowledge innovation program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.KZCX3-SW-123).
文摘Reported in this paper are the petrology and mineral chemistry of GRV 020090, the second Martian meteorite collected from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica. This meteorite, with a mass of 7.54 g, is completely covered by a black and glazy fusion crust. It has two distinct textural regions. The interstitial region is composed of euhedral grains of olivine, pigeonite, and anhedral interstitial maskelynite, with minor chromite, augite, phosphates and troilite. The poikilitic region consists of three clasts of pyroxenes, each of which has a pigeonite core and an augite rim. A few grains of subhedral to rounded olivine and euhedral chromite are enclosed in the pyroxene oikocrysts. GRV 020090 is classified as a new member of lherzolitic shergottites based on the modal composition and mineral chemistry. This work will shed light on the composition of Martian crust and magmatism on the Mars.
基金This work was supported by the pilot project of knowledge-innovation of Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No:KZCX3-SW-123)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.40025311).
文摘Three new carbonaceous chondrites (GRV 020025,021579 and 022459) collected from the Grove Mountains (GRV), Antarctica, have been classified as the CM2, CO3 and CV3 chondrites, respectively. A total of 27 Ca- and Al-rich inclusions have been found in the three meteorites, which are the earliest assemblages formed in the solar nebula. Most of the inclusions are intensively altered, with abundant phyllosilicates in the inclusions from GRV 020025 and FeO enrichment of spinel in those from GRV 022459. Except for one spinel-spherule in each of GRV 020025 and 021579, all the inclusions can be classified as Type A-like or spinel-pyroxene-rich inclusions, and they probably represent the continuum of solar nebular condensation. In addition, most of the inclusions in these meteorites share much similarity in both petrography and mineral chemistry, suggesting a similar origin of Ca-Al-rich inclusions in various chondrites.
文摘Petrography and mineral chemistry of 24 ordinary chondrites from the Grove Mountains, Antarctica, have been studied in order to identify their chemical-petrographic types. These samples were selected from a total of 4448 Grove Mountains (GRV) meteorites collected during the 19th Chinese Antarctic Research Expedition so as to make an estimation of the large GRV meteorite collection. The chemical-petrographic types of these meteorites are presented below: 1 H3,2 H4, 4 H5, 2 H6, 1 L4, 7 L5, 5 L6, 1 LL4 and 1 LL6. The new data weaken the previous report that unequilibrated ordinary chondrites are unusually abundant in the Grove Mountains region. However, this work confirms significant differences in distribution patterns of chemical-petrographic types between the Grove Mountains and other regions in Antarctica. Many of these meteorites show significant terrestrial weathering, probably due to a high abundance ratio of meteorites found in moraines to those on blue ice. Nine meteorites experienced severe shock metamorphism, as evidenced by undulose extinction and intense fracturing of silicates and presence of shock-induced melt veins and pockets. These heavily shocked meteorites provided us with natural samples for the study of high-pressure polymorphs of minerals.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China under contract Nos 41876212,41406218 and 41676176the Polar Strategy Project from Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration under contract No.20120317the Opening Fund of Key Laboratory of Land Surface Process and Climate Change in Cold and Arid Regions,CAS,under contract Nos LPCC2018001 and LPCC2018005
文摘Annual observations of first-year ice(FYI) and second-year ice(SYI) near Zhongshan Station, East Antarctica,were conducted for the first time from December 2011 to December 2012. Melt ponds appeared from early December 2011. Landfast ice partly broke in late January, 2012 after a strong cyclone. Open water was refrozen to form new ice cover in mid-February, and then FYI and SYI co-existed in March with a growth rate of 0.8 cm/d for FYI and a melting rate of 2.7 cm/d for SYI. This difference was due to the oceanic heat flux and the thickness of ice,with weaker heat flux through thicker ice. From May onward, FYI and SYI showed a similar growth by 0.5 cm/d.Their maximum thickness reached 160.5 cm and 167.0 cm, respectively, in late October. Drillings showed variations of FYI thickness to be generally less than 1.0 cm, but variations were up to 33.0 cm for SYI in March,suggesting that the SYI bottom was particularly uneven. Snow distribution was strongly affected by wind and surface roughness, leading to large thickness differences in the different sites. Snow and ice thickness in Nella Fjord had a similar "east thicker, west thinner" spatial distribution. Easterly prevailing wind and local topography led to this snow pattern. Superimposed ice induced by snow cover melting in summer thickened multi-year ice,causing it to be thicker than the snow-free SYI. The estimated monthly oceanic heat flux was ～30.0 W/m2 in March–May, reducing to ～10.0 W/m2 during July–October, and increasing to ～15.0 W/m2 in November. The seasonal change and mean value of 15.6 W/m2 was similar to the findings of previous research. The results can be used to further our understanding of landfast ice for climate change study and Chinese Antarctic Expedition services.
