The largest bank of ice on Earth is Antarctica. This massive landmass holds approximately 60% of the world's fresh water, primarily in the form of ice. The Antarctic ice sheet covers an area of about 14 million square kilometers (5.4 million square miles) and contains vast glaciers and ice shelves. Climate change and global warming significantly impact this region, leading to accelerated melting and contributing to rising sea levels. Scientists study Antarctica not only to understand its climate system but also to gain insights into Earth's geological history and the effects of environmental changes. Its unique ecosystem remains a crucial area of research.