polynya

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Introduction References & Edit History Quick Facts & Related Topics

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Earth from space. Full-hemisphere views of the Earth showing Hurricane Linda at its peak approaching Baja California on 1997 September 11.

What Is Earth’s Velocity?

Solar system illustration. (planets; sun)

Why Are Planets Round?

World map. Continents. Oceans. Mendel thumb ok

Just How Many Oceans Are There?

ripped torn flag, pirate, skull

Are There Laws on the High Seas?

A big, powerful wave breaking near the shore.

What Makes a Wave Go Rogue?

Discover

Aphrodite. Greek mythology. Sculpture. Aphrodite is the Greek goddess of love and beauty.

12 Greek Gods and Goddesses

Space race (1957-1969) infographic between United States (U.S.) and Russia. America, Soviet Union, U.S.S.R., space exploration

Timeline of the Space Race, 1957–69

Moonrise over Tucson, Arizona

Why Doesn’t Arizona Observe Daylight Saving Time?

After a perfect launch, spectators try to catch a last glimpse of Space Shuttle Columbia, barely visible at the top end of the twisted column of smoke.

7 Accidents and Disasters in Spaceflight History

Calendar showing the month of February

Why Are There Only 28 Days in February?

Bar graph of the United States Death Toll during major events. Infogram chart.

U.S. Death Toll During Major Events

Calendar marking march 15th

22 Questions About Time and Timekeeping Answered

polynya: Facts & Related Content

Written and fact-checked by The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Facts

Also Known As	polynia

Topics

pack ice glacier permafrost iceberg ice in lakes and rivers sea ice

Quiz

Shallow staghorn water corals in fringing reef at low tide in Thailand. (coral reefs; endangered area; ocean habitat; sea habitat; coral reef)

Unknown Waters

water glass on white background. (drink; clear; clean water; liquid)

Water and its Varying Forms