Cape Columbia facts for kids
Cape Columbia is the most northern piece of land in all of Canada. It's found on a large island called Ellesmere Island, which is part of the Nunavut territory in Canada's far north. This special cape also marks the western edge of the Lincoln Sea, a part of the huge Arctic Ocean. It's super close to the North Pole, only about 769 kilometers (478 miles) away!
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What is Cape Columbia?
Cape Columbia is a very important landmark. It's the northernmost point of land in Canada. Imagine standing at the very top of the world, and that's almost where Cape Columbia is! It's located on Ellesmere Island, which is one of the largest islands in the Canadian Arctic.
Where is it located?
This cape is part of the Qikiqtaaluk Region in Nunavut. Nunavut is Canada's largest and newest territory. It covers a huge area of the Arctic. Cape Columbia sits right on the edge of the Lincoln Sea. This sea is a part of the massive Arctic Ocean.
How close is it to the North Pole?
Cape Columbia is incredibly close to the North Pole. It's only about 769 kilometers (478 miles) away. This makes it a key spot for explorers and scientists. They often use it as a starting point for expeditions to the North Pole.
Exploring Cape Columbia
Because of its extreme northern location, Cape Columbia is a challenging place to visit. The weather is very cold, and the area is covered in ice for most of the year. Despite this, it has been important for many Arctic adventures.
Early expeditions
Many brave explorers have passed by Cape Columbia. They used it as a landmark on their journeys. These journeys aimed to reach the North Pole. It was a vital point for planning their routes.
Scientific research
Today, scientists visit Cape Columbia to study the Arctic environment. They learn about the ice, the ocean, and the climate. This research helps us understand how our planet is changing. The unique location makes it perfect for these studies.
Images for kids
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The pack ice of the Arctic Ocean stagnates off Cape Columbia, April 18, 1990
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Pack ice of the Arctic Ocean accumulates off Cape Columbia. The twin otter machine stands on the fast ice between the stacked pack ice (right) and the mainland
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Ice pressure ridges of the Arctic Ocean off Cape Columbia
See also
In Spanish: Cabo Columbia para niños
