Antarctica is a large continent equal in size to Europe and Australia put together. What is remarkable about this continent is that until recently it has been completely isolated from all other continents. In spite of its size, Antarctica had its first temporary year-round inhabitants in the latter half of the present century.
Explorers and scientists go to this continent to study its geology and its mineral resources, and to establish weather stations. Some go for only a year or two. However, if the ship, which is their only means of transport back to the other continents, cannot reach their base, they have to settle down to their work again and hope that the ship will be able to reach them the year after.
Ninety-nine per cent of this vast continent is covered with snow or ice, which varies in depth from two feet to two miles. It is calculated that in all there is an area of 5,000,00 square miles covered with ice. The elevation of the continent is between six and nine thousand feet above sea level, with mountain peaks which rise even higher, and its perpetual snow cover intensifies its cold polar climate.
It is also the first free region of the world. By an international treaty, Antarctica has been dedicated to peaceful purposes only, and this has promoted international co-operation in scientific research. This may prove the first step in internationalizing the world in future, and if it does, it would be far more significant than discovering the material industrial potential of Antarctica.
