| Term: | Multiyear ice |
| Definition: |
Sea ice that has survived more than two summer melt seasons. Such ice is typically 3 m or more thick, is less saline, and has smoother hummocks and ridges than does younger ice. Undeformed multiyear ice is distinguished by its undular surface (remnants of drained or refrozen melt ponds). Multiyear ridges are distinct from first-year ridges in that they are typically smaller, more rounded, nearly solid ice and are therefore a serious impediment to surface ships. AMSglossary
Ice that has survived at least one melt season; it is typically 2 to 4 meters (6.6 to 13.1 feet) thick and thickens as more ice grows on its underside. NSIDCCryosphere GCW |