Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Permafrost is permanently frozen soil, typically found in polar regions.
Related terms
Tundra: This is a type of biome where the tree growth is hindered by low temperatures and short growing seasons. It's like the 'neighborhood' where permafrost 'lives'.
Thawing Permafrost: This refers to when warming temperatures cause permafrost to melt, often releasing trapped gases like methane into the atmosphere.
Cryosphere: This term encompasses all places on Earth where water is in its solid form, including ice caps, glaciers, and permafrost.