INDEX

1)INTRODUCTION

2)ANTARTICA AS A WINDOW TO THE PAST

3)UNIQUE GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENT OF ANTARTICA

4)SYMBOLIC SIGNIFICANCE OF ANTARTICA

5) ANTARTICA’S CULTURE AND TRADITION

6) SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION

7) ANTARTICA ROLE IN CLIMATE CHANGE

8) THE FRAGILITY OF ANTARTICA’S ECOSYSTEM

9) CONSERVATION OF THE HABITAT

10) STUDENT REFLECTION

11) QUESTIONNAIRE

12) REPORT

13) CONCLUSION

14) BIBLIOGRAPHY

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AUTHOR OF JOURNEY TO END OF THE EARTH-TISHANI DOSHI

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INTRODUCTION
About the author:
Tishani Doshi is the author of the chapter "Journey to the End
of the Earth". Doshi is an Indian poet, journalist, dancer, and
award-winning freelance writer. Her work often explores
themes of identity, culture, and the environment, and she has
published several books of poetry and fiction.
Her essays, poems, and short stories have been widely
appreciated and published in journals and publications across
India and the US.
Journey to end of the earth:
The lesson revolves around the world's most preserved place,
Antarctica. Not many people have been there but out of the
few that have, Tishani Doshi is one of them. A south Indian
person who went on an expedition with a group of teenagers
affiliated with 'Students on Ice' programme who takes young
minds to different ends of the world. Thus, it gives an insight
into how Antarctica is the place you should visit to have a
glimpse of the past, present and the future in its realist form.

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 ANTARTICA AS A WINDOW TO THE PAST
The history of Antarctica emerges from early Western theories
of a vast continent, known as Terra Australis, believed to exist
in the far south of the globe. The term Antarctic, referring to
the opposite of the Arctic Circle, was coined by Marinus of Tyre
in the 2nd century AD.
Piri Reis began systematically questioning Spanish prisoners in
the early sixteenth century and collecting maps to find
Columbus's source and explore a new continent as well. The
map he drew in 1513[1] was found in the Topkapi palace in
Istanbul in the 20th century. It shows the details of the West
African coast, parts of South America, and an almost
unreadable coast of a South continent that resembles the coast
of Queen Maud Land.[2] On 28 January 1820, a Russian
expedition led by Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen and
Mikhail Lazarev reached 69° 21' south latitude, 2° 15' west
longitude, and on February 2nd 66° 25' south latitude, 1° 11'
west longitude, at both of which positions he was stopped by
the pack. He then steered eastward, and on February 17th
reached 69° 6' south latitude, and on the 19th, 68° 5' south
latitude, 16° 37' east longitude. Later, he reached 66° 53' south
latitude, 40° 56' east longitude, where he thought land must be
near, on account of the numbers of birds. Ten months later an
American sealer, Nathaniel Palmer, became the first to sight

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Its average depth is 2,160 metres (7,000 feet), with a maximum
depth of 4,776 metres (15,669 feet).Ice covers roughly 98% of
Antarctica, which equates to 90% of the Earth's ice and 70% of
our fresh water.There is no Antarctic time zone and it used to
be warm as Melbourne.Antarctica has active volcanoes and it
has a subglacial lake that flows blood red.The Antarctic Ice
Sheet dominates the region. It is the largest single piece of ice
on Earth.

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UNIQUE GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENT
OF ANTARCTICA
Location:Antarctica is the Southernmost continent on Earth,
situated at the bottom of the globe.
Landscapes: Antarctica is characterized by its vast,lcy expanses,
towering mountains, and glaciers.
Isolation: The continent is extremely remote, with no
permanent rend limited access to the land.
CLIMATE: Extreme climate: Antarctica is one of the coldest
places on Earth, with temperatures averaging-50°C (-58°F) in
winter.
Ozone layer: Antarctica's unique atmospheric conditions have
led to the formation of the ozone layer,which protects the
planet from harmful UV radiation.
Climate change: Antarctica's ice sheets are critical indicators of
global climate change, and its melting contributes to sea-level
rise.It is unique among the continents for being almost totally
covered by glacier ice and for the following reasons:It is the
highest, driest, coldest and windiest.It covers 14.2 million
square kilometres (5.5 million square miles).The Antarctic ice
sheet is the largest ice store on earth.Its mass is 30 million cubic
metres (7.2 million cubic miles)

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Antarctica on 17 November 1820. The first landing was most
likely just over a year later when English-born American Captain
John Davis, a sealer, set foot on the ice.
Several expeditions attempted to reach the South Pole in the
early 20th century, during the "Heroic Age of Antarctic
Exploration". Many resulted in injury and death. Norwegian
Roald Amundsen finally reached the Pole on 14 December
1911, following a dramatic race with the Briton Robert Falcon
Scott.

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SYMBOLIC SIGNIFICANCE OF ANTARTICA
Antarctica, the coldest and most remote continent on Earth,
holds a deep symbolic significance.
Isolation: As the most isolated place on Earth, Antarctica often
symbolizes solitude, detachment, and the desire to escape from
the complexities of modern life. It can represent a retreat from
society, a place where one can find peace and introspection.
Purity:Antarctica's pristine environment, untouched by human
development, symbolizes purity, innocence, and the natural
world in its original state
Hope and Resilience: Despite its harsh conditions, Antarctica
also symbolizes hope and resilience. The ability of life to adapt
and thrive in such extreme environments offers inspiration and
encouragement for overcoming challenges and persevering in
the face of adversity.It is a symbol of
purity,isolation,scientificexploration,environmental concerns
and hope.

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ANTARTICA’S CULTURE AND TRADITION
From a broad-stroked perspective, Antarctica traditions revolve
around the pursuit of scientific research and the maintenance
of infrastructure and machinery—plus the legitimately
important routine of tourism. Carrying out and servicing the
science means not only operations pursued at research stations
but also remote fieldwork during the austral summer. Coring
ice samples, tagging penguins, donning SCUBA gear to monitor
the sub-ice realm, fixing broken-down vehicles, marking out ice
roads for the season: For those calling the White Continent
home—whether seasonal visitors or “winter-overs”—work
helps dictate the culture.
That said, from high-profile holidays to quirky “local” customs,
Antarctica’s ephemeral populace definitely knows how to let
loose and celebrate the singular experience of living at the
bottom of the world. The necessities of cooperation and
collaboration in this ultra-remote corner of the planet, plus the
close quarters which define daily life here, mean that the
human scene in this ultra-remote corner of the planet is a
highly social one. Research bases include lively dining halls,
cafes, and pubs, and there are often karaoke nights, dance
classes, impromptu parties. For a long time, you could even go
bowling at McMurdo Station.

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SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION
Scientific research in Antarctica provides insights into global
patterns and changes, and helps scientists understand the
fragile balance of life on Earth. Here are some areas of scientific
research in Antarctica:
Ice-sheet:The thickness and structure of the Antarctic ice sheet
is important to studying global sea level and climate change.
Sedimentology:Research into sediments from the ocean floor
and Antarctica can provide archives of changes in glaciers and
ice sheets, and how these changes affect climate and sea level.
Glaciology:Glaciologists study all forms of ice on the planet,
including the ice sheets in Antarctica.
Ice samples:Ice samples from the Antarctic polar ice can
provide researchers with valuable information.
PHYTOPLANKTON:
The author gives us an example of phytoplankton to show how
small changes in the atmosphere can be threatening.The
microscopic phytoplankton are single celled plants.They
nourish and sustain the entire Southern Ocean's food
chain.They use the sun's energy to assimilate carbon and supply
oxygen.

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 ANTARCTICA ROLE IN CLIMATE CHANGE
Antarctica as a Climate Archive: Discusses how ice cores from
Antarctica provide valuable data about Earth's climate history
over millions of years.
Impact of Global Warming:Explains how the melting of
Antarctic ice due to rising temperatures could lead to a
significant rise in sea levels,affecting ecosystems and human
worldwide populations worldwide.
The climate of Antarctica is closely connected to the climate of
the rest of the world through the ocean and the atmosphere.
For example, ice melting in Antarctica is causing sea-level rise in
other parts of the world and warming seas are impacting the
animals living in the ocean.
Antarctica is a hotspot for climate change and plays a
significant role in the global climate system:
Sea level rise: Antarctica's ice sheet contains 90% of the Earth's
ice and 70% of its fresh water. If it were to melt completely, it
would raise global sea levels by 200 ft. As climate change
causes more ice and snow to melt each year, the water flows
into the Southern Ocean, contributing to rising sea levels in
other parts of the world
Ocean warming: Warming seas impact ocean life.

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Climate history: Antarctica's ice cores contain air bubbles and
isotopes that scientists can study to reconstruct past
atmospheric conditions and understand the evolution of Earth's
climate. This information helps scientists understand natural
climate variability and the need to address human-induced
climate change.
Climate change: Around Antarctica, the Southern Ocean has
absorbed more heat than any other ocean, with particularly
strong warming at depths below 2,000 m (6,600 ft).

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THE FRAGILITY OF ANTARTICA’S ECOSYSTEM
Antarctica, known as the "last untouched frontier", is home to
unique and fragile ecosystem is a delicate balance of life,
shaped by the harsh and unforgiving climate. The continent's
unique biodiversity is supported by the Antarctic Circumpolar
Current, which brings nutrient-rich waters from the Atlantic,
Indian, and Pacific Oceans. This isolation has allowed species to
evolve in unique ways, such as the Emperor Penguin, which
breeds in the coldest and most inhospitable environment on
Earth. The Antarctic ice sheet, which covers over 98% of the
continent, plays a crucial role in regulating the climate and
supporting marine life. However, this ice sheet is vulnerable to
climate change, which is causing it to melt at an alarming rate.
The Adelie Penguin, one of the most abundant penguin species,
is also declining due to climate change and habitat destruction.
Antarctic Hair Grass: Found only in a few areas, it's a vital food
source and helps prevent erosion.
Emperor Penguin: With only 200,000 breeding pairs remaining,
it's vulnerable to changes in sea ice coverage and krill
populations.

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CONSERVATION OF THE HABITAT
Managing Antarctic marine living resources,Given the rich
abundance of marine life in Antarctica, the Convention for the
Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)
was established in 1982 to manage fisheries in the region with
the goal of preserving species diversity and marine ecosystem
stability. Each of the 25 member nations of the Convention
engages in fishing or scientific research in the Southern Ocean,
providing information on krill, finfish, and other marine life.
Although the aim of the Convention is to conserve marine life
of the Southern Ocean, reasonable harvesting is permitted. The
Convention adopted a “precautionary” approach to minimize
the potential risks of unsustainable harvesting practices.
As Antarctic resources grow in economic value, the temptation
to engage in illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing has
also increased, creating enforcement challenges in the
Southern Ocean’s vast and harsh environment.
Following the establishment of Convention, the U.S. Antarctic
Marine Living Resources Convention Act of 1984 provided the
legislative authority to establish NOAA’s Antarctic Marine Living
Resources Program. This program, which operates out of
NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, conducts directed
research on krill-based ecosystems in the Antarctic. Ultimately

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it proves information to the Department of State to achiethe
conservation objectives of the Convention.

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STUDENT REFLECTION
The World at Our Doorstep:Before reading "Journey to the End
of the Earth," Antarctica was a distant, icy blob on a map. A
place so removed from our world that it seemed almost unreal.
But Tishani Doshi's words brought this remote continent to life,
transforming it from a geographical entity to a tangible, fragile
ecosystem. Its pristine beauty starkly contrasts our polluted
world, serving as a silent accusation of human impact. The
alarming effects of climate change in Antarctica ignited a sense
of personal responsibility.
I believe that everyone has a role to play in protecting our
planet. Small steps, like reducing our carbon footprint or
spreading awareness, can collectively make a significant
difference. The journey to the end of the earth, as described in
the text, has inspired me to become more environmentally
conscious and to advocate for sustainable practices.
In conclusion, "Journey to the End of the Earth" is more than
just a piece of literature; it's a wake-up call. It has broadened
my perspective, ignited a sense of responsibility, and instilled in
me a deep respect for our planet.

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QUESTIONNAIRE
Q:Why is Antarctica important for studying the Earth's history?
A:Antarctica can provide insight into how the Earth looked
millions of years ago and how it was divided into different
masses. The melting and colliding ice masses can also provide
insight into what the future may look like if humans continue to
interfere with nature.
Q: What unique opportunities does Antarctica offer scientists?
A:The continent's pristine marine ecosystems provide scientists
with the opportunity to study a variety of marine species and
oceanographic processes
Q: How does global warming affect Antarctica?
A:Rising global temperatures cause the ice in Antarctica to
melt, which leads to sea-level rise
Q: How do other human activities impact Antarctica?
A:Human activities like sewage disposal and chemical
contamination can have long-term effects on the environment.
Contemporary sewage management practices at coastal
stations may not be enough to prevent
local contamination

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Q: How does climate change impact Antarctica?
A:Climate change is the biggest long-term threat to Antarctica.
Global warming and melting ice sheets are especially
problematic, and can cause sea-level rise in other parts of the
world. Warming seas can also impact ocean animals
Q: What are some environmental threats to Antarctica?
A:Some of the biggest threats to Antarctica include climate
change, increased fishing pressure, marine pollution, and
invasive species. Other threats include tourism, snow pollution,
loss of biodiversity, and mineral mining.
Q:What sort of brightness and silence prevailed in Antarctica
during summer?
A:The brightness that prevailed in Antarctica was surreal
(strange) as the austral summer light remained for 24 hours in
the continent. The silence there was ubiquitous (widespread)
interrupted only by the occasional avalanche or calving ice
sheet.
Q:What are the other programmes that can be suggested by
the essence of student on ice programme?
A:-Astronomy Expeditions: Observing celestial bodies in remote
locations with advanced telescopes.

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-Amazon Rainforest Expedition: Studying biodiversity,
indigenous cultures, and deforestation.
-Renewable Energy Projects: Hands-on experiences in
developing sustainable energy solutions.
Q:What was wondrous about Antarctica?
A:Expansive white landscape and uninterrupted blue horizon
and its immensity and isolation was wondrous about
Antarctica.
Q:Gondwana existed before six hundred and fifty million years.
Explain.
A:Six hundred and fifty million years ago, a giant amalgamated
Southern super continent 'Gondwana' did indeed exist,
centered roughly around the present day Antarctica.

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REPORT
As part of our journey by reading Tishani Doshi’s lesson to
explore the world's most extreme environments, our class
embarked on a virtual expedition to Antarctica, the icy and
inhospitable continent at the bottom of the world. Located
almost entirely within the Antarctic Circle, Antarctica is the
coldest, driest, and windiest continent on Earth.
Antarctica's Wildlife

Antarctica's Climate Zones

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Meteorites: Antarctica is a prime location for finding
meteorites due to its icy surface, which preserves these
extraterrestrial objects.
Volcanism: While primarily covered in ice, Antarctica has active
volcanoes, including Mount Erebus, which is the southernmost
active volcano on Earth.
Flora and Fauna: Despite the harsh conditions, Antarctica
supports a diverse range of marine life, including penguins,
whales, seals, and krill. Terrestrial vegetation is limited to
lichens, mosses, and algae.
The Antarctic Treaty: An important geopolitical milestone
because it was the first arms control agreement established
during the Cold War. Along with the IGY, the Antarctic Treaty
symbolized global understanding and exchange during a period
of intense division and secrecy.
Hence by this report we get to know that Antarctica is a
continent of extremes, both geographically and environmentally.

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CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Antarctica is a window to the past, offering a
glimpse into the Earth's ancient history. Its unique geography
and environment, characterized by extreme temperatures and
isolation, make it a fascinating and fragile ecosystem.
Symbolically, Antarctica represents a pristine and untouched
frontier, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. As a symbol of
scientific exploration and discovery, it has captivated the
imagination of researchers and scientists for centuries.
However, Antarctica plays a crucial role in climate change, with
its melting ice sheets contributing to sea-level rise and global
warming. The fragility of its ecosystem is a pressing concern, as
it is home to diverse and endemic species that are vulnerable to
environmental changes. Therefore, it is essential to conserve
the habitat and protect the ecosystem from human impact.
Through scientific research and exploration, we can continue to
learn about Antarctica's unique environment and work towards
preserving its natural beauty for future generations.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Class 12:Vistas(English supplementary book)
Pictures via Pinterest
Wikipedia
Gemini AI
National geographic website
Infinity learn

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