Ice extent refers to the total area covered by sea ice in a given region, such as an ocean or lake. It is typically measured using satellite data and represents the amount of frozen water surface coverage at any given time.
The exact date and value of the minimum sea ice extent in 2017 can only be determined in the coming weeks, after a significant increase. (sciencedaily.com)
The minimum sea ice extent in 2010 fits into a long - term pattern of decline, especially in multi-year ice, which persists through the summer melt season and into another winter. (earthobservatory.nasa.gov)
Might we see a rapid loss of ice extent in the near future? (arcus.org)