Posted on September 07, 2009 by Nancy Houser

Dogs are not the only beautiful creations of nature even though most dog lovers may disagree. Beautiful icebergs in the Antarctic area sometimes have assorted stripes, formed by layers of snow that react to different conditions.  Blue stripes are often created when a crevice in the ice sheet fills up with melt water and freezes so quickly that no bubbles form.

When an iceberg falls into the sea, a layer of salty seawater can freeze to the underside. If this is rich in algae, it can form a green stripe. Brown, black and yellow lines are caused by sediment, picked up when the ice sheet grinds downhill towards the sea. A beautiful work of art for sure with each one having its own design, depending on its conditions and circumstances.

Thank you to Carleen Hatas of Cozad NE for submitting this for sharing!

“Most of those in the Antarctic were formed from snow falling on the giant ice sheet that covers the continent. Over time, the snow is compressed to form more ice, which slides slowly towards the sea.

There it either breaks off into the water, or forms an ice shelf. Most appear white as a result of the tiny bubbles trapped within them which scatter light in every direction. However, if the bubbles are squeezed out, or if part of the iceberg melts and quickly refreezes, it can appear blue.”

PHOTOGRAPHS: Norwegian sailor Oyvind Tangen

**********************************************

Striped Icebergs

Revealed: The Antarctic iceberg that looks like a giant humbug

Related posts:

• How to keep dogs warm in winter
• Dog of the Month: The Cocker
• My Granddaughter’s Wedding
• Leftover Halloween Pumpkin for Healthy Dog Treats
• Dog’s Love Crosses Barriers