Pack ice, also known as ice floes or sea ice, refers to large areas of floating ice that form and cover the surface of the ocean. It consists of a mixture of small ice pieces, ranging from a few meters to several kilometers in size, along with areas of open water called leads. Pack ice is formed from freezing seawater and is commonly found in polar regions, such as the Arctic and Antarctic. It plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate system, as it reflects sunlight back into space, helps regulate global temperature, and provides habitat for various species, including polar bears and seals.
