Arctic polynya: A Decadal Analysis (2012-2022)

Leveraging sea ice concentration and sea ice thickness data, this study successfully mapped the distribution and temporal dynamics of Arctic polynyas over the decade 2012-2022. By comparing the polynyas extraction results of SIC (<75%) and SIT (<0.3 m), it was found that both SIC and SIT can effectively extract the polynyas extent and duration. Our analysis reveals an overall increase in the area of polynyas during this period, with a significant upward trend since 2018. Consistent with previous research, polynyas are predominantly located near the coast. Furthermore, we observed a robust spatial correlation between chlorophyll content and polynyas, highlighting the crucial role of polynyas in promoting biological activity in the Arctic region.