Weathering

The harsh temperatures affect the type of weathering a lot. Stone weathering usually occurs in warm arid environments, but it is possible even in the coldest temperatures. Stone weathering is only on two different types of rock in this specific area. They are olivine stone and talc veins. 

                                                Sub Zero temperatures in the Arctic Circle.

Olivine stone has been known to weather rather quickly compared to other types of rock. But when it begins, the stone gradually turns a redish-brown color.

                              This is an image of an Olivine stone after it has begun weathering.

The second type of stone weathering is with the talc veins. Normally highly resistant towards natural weathering, but is the softest of all minerals.The only time when it is very prone to weathering is when criss-crossed by micro cracks that are penetrated by water. Once this happens, frost damage is seen. If frost damage does not happen, it may have carried salts  which can form crystallization. 

                                                 An image of Talc veins with weathering.

Did you know??? 

Olivine stone is very popular in being made into jewelry. Normally they are cut to fit into bracelets, and range from $20-$400!

Sources: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/salt-crystallization.html

http://per-storemyr.net/2010/11/15/stone-weathering-at-the-westernmost-coast-of-norway/

Volcanoes in the Arctic

It's not the biggest out there, but the Arctic Circle is home to the northernmost active volcano on Earth! With an elevation of 7,470ft, is the Beerenberg volcano.

                                          Picture of the Beerenberg volcano on a sunny day



It has been very active between 1732 and 1985, with a recorded six eruptions! This is a subduction zone, which occurs when one tectonic plate moves under another and then sinks. This is known to pose the greatest risk for civilizations.

                               In this image, you can see the locations of 4 of the volcanic eruptions




When you see it in person, most people just think its a regular mountain. This is because it is a stratovolcano that is completely covered in glaciers.

                         Camping on this "mountain" might be the biggest mistake of your life!


Did you know???
  Scientists have found that a ridge below the north polar ice cap is full of volcanic activity! This has vents of superheated water, which could hold undiscovered species!


Sources:  http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/632130/volcano/302040/List-of-the-worlds-major-volcanoes

http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/beerenberg