Melting ice at the poles makes days longer

In recent years, the melting of polar ice has become a critical concern for scientists. This phenomenon not only raises sea levels but also gradually alters one of Earth’s fundamental characteristics—the length of a day. A recent study published by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences reports that meltwater from Greenland and the Arctic increases the mass at the equator.

The slowing rotation of Earth due to polar ice melt leads to longer days (Kulusuk, Greenland). (Photo: Getty Images)

Professor Benedikt Soja and his research team at ETH Zurich (Switzerland) compared Earth to a figure skater to explain this phenomenon. By precisely measuring the time it takes for radio waves to travel from space to various points on Earth, scientists discovered that our planet is slowing its rotation. “It’s like when a figure skater extends their arms to slow their spin,” Soja explained.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Another factor slowing Earth’s rotation is the gravitational pull of the Moon, which affects the oceans, creating tides and friction that slow Earth’s spin. Additionally, human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions causing climate change, are increasingly becoming an unintended “brake” on Earth. If this continues, by the end of the century, the impact of climate change on Earth’s rotation speed will surpass that of the Moon.

These rapid changes underline the urgency for strong and timely action. If we do not act, humanity may face greater and unforeseen challenges in the future.

Source: Dân Trí