Permafrost

Permafrost refers to soil, rock, or sediment that remains frozen for two or more consecutive years, typically found in polar regions and high-altitude mountainous areas. As a critical component of the Earth's cryosphere, permafrost plays a significant role in climate research, storing large amounts of carbon dioxide and methane that can be released as greenhouse gases when thawed, making its study essential for understanding climate change impacts and informing strategies for mitigating its effects.