The Cryosphere Shawn J. Marshall is an English-language textbook about the ice masses and snow on Earth. This book is intended for students and professionals seeking insight into the role of the cryosphere within the global climate system.
It covers in depth the diverse components of the cryosphere, including seasonal snow, permafrost, rivers and lakes with ice, sea ice, glaciers, ice sheets, and ice shelves. Marshall explains how these elements interact with the atmosphere and oceans, and what influence they have on climate, sea level, and ocean currents. The role of the cryosphere during historical ice ages is also discussed, as well as the future impact of changes in ice on the landscape and climate.
The book connects to fields such as meteorology, hydrology, and climate science, and offers a clear introduction combined with in-depth explanations. Additional components include a glossary, further reading, explanations of formulas, and current research questions.
Series: Princeton Primers in Climate