Brinicle

Definition of Brinicle as it relates to Places, Natural Wonders, Falls, Frozen Falls

Brinicle, also known as "icicle of death," is a rare natural phenomenon that occurs when extremely cold saltwater from the surface of the ocean meets less dense, warmer seawater beneath it, causing the colder water to sink and freeze everything in its path. This results in the formation of elongated, pipe-like ice structures that extend downward from the sea ice above, reaching temperatures as low as -18°C. As a part of the Frozen Falls hierarchy, Brinicles can be described as towering icicles extending from the bottom of sea ice, capturing the essence of frozen waterfalls in their unique and ephemeral existence. They form under specific conditions where cold brine sinks through the warmer ocean water, freezing everything it encounters. This process creates a stunning display of nature's power to transform and shape its environment, fitting seamlessly within the context of Places, Natural Wonders, and Falls.

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