If you’ve ever seen a picture of an igloo, you may have found yourself wondering how it’s able to stay intact in the harsh, frigid temperatures of the Arctic. After all, we humans wouldn’t be able to survive more than a few minutes in such an environment without the proper clothing and shelter. But somehow, the Inuit people of the Canadian Arctic have perfected the art of igloo-building and have sustained their way of life for centuries. The question remains though, how does an igloo not melt?
Believe it or not, the answer lies in the igloo’s unique structure and the properties of the snow it’s made from. When constructing an igloo, the Inuit people carefully select and cut blocks of snow that are uniform in shape and size. They then stack these blocks in a spiral pattern, gently curving the blocks inward as they build to form a dome shape. The tightly-packed snow blocks form a structure that is surprisingly strong and well-insulated, allowing the inside of the igloo to stay warm despite the sub-zero temperature outside.
But the secret to why an igloo doesn’t melt lies in the properties of snow itself. Snow is made up of tiny ice crystals that are filled with air pockets that act as insulators. When these crystals are packed tightly together, they trap even more air between them, which provides additional insulation. This insulation keeps the igloo warm on the inside, while also preventing the outside heat from penetrating the walls of the structure. So, the next time you find yourself shivering in the cold, remember that the humble igloo has a lot to teach us about the power of insulation and creative problem-solving.
How an Igloo is Constructed
Traditionally, igloos have been used as winter shelters by indigenous people in the Arctic regions. The word ‘igloo’ translates as ‘house’ or ‘shelter’ in the Inuit language. The construction of an igloo requires specialized knowledge and skill, which has been passed down from generation to generation among the indigenous people. The basic structure of an igloo is made of ice blocks that are cut and shaped in a specific way to form a dome-shaped shelter. With proper construction, an igloo can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions.
- The foundation: The first step in constructing an igloo is to select a suitable site for building. The location needs to be level and provide a firm base for the foundation. Once the site is chosen, a trench is dug in the snow to provide extra insulation against the cold. The trench is then filled with ice blocks that are cut and shaped to fit together tightly.
- The dome: The next step is to start building the dome-shaped structure. Blocks of snow are cut from the surrounding area and placed in a circular formation. As the structure grows, each block is carefully shaped to fit together with the others, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The blocks are angled slightly inwards towards the center, with the top being smaller than the base.
- The capstone: Once the walls of the igloo are high enough, the final block, called the capstone, is placed on the top of the dome to complete the shelter. The capstone needs to be shaped in a specific way to fit perfectly onto the dome, providing a solid seal that prevents cold air from entering the shelter. In addition, a small ventilation hole is made at the top of the igloo to allow for proper air circulation.
The design of an igloo is not only functional but also visually stunning. The dome-shaped structure is not only stable but also provides an aesthetically pleasing shape. The ice blocks used in construction act as a natural insulating material, providing warmth and protection from the harsh environment outside. The compact size of an igloo also helps to retain body heat, making it an ideal shelter in extremely cold conditions.
In conclusion, the construction of an igloo is a highly skilled and specialized process that has been passed down through generations of indigenous people. The design of the igloo allows for maximum insulation and protection against the extreme elements of the Arctic, making it a functional and beautiful shelter that has stood the test of time.
Materials used in an igloo’s construction
People have been building igloos for centuries to survive in the harsh Arctic winters. Igloos are dome-shaped shelters made of snow blocks and can be quite strong and durable. But, how does an igloo not melt? The answer lies in the materials used in its construction.
- Snow: The primary material used in igloo construction is snow. But not all snow is suitable for building igloos. The best snow for igloos is light and powdery, which can be found in cold regions with temperatures between -7°C and -12°C. The snow is used to make blocks, which are cut into a uniform size and shape.
- Ice: Ice is often used to reinforce the igloo walls, making them stronger. The ice is made by melting snow and using the resulting water to create new ice blocks. The ice blocks are then used to fill any gaps in the walls and create a more solid structure.
- Animal hides: In some cases, animal hides are used to make the entrance of the igloo. The hides are used to block the wind and keep the interior warm. The hides are also flexible, which allows for easy entry and exit from the igloo.
Overall, igloos are made of natural and renewable materials, making them an eco-friendly option for those living in extreme weather conditions.
Building a snow block
The snow blocks used to build an igloo are more complex than they might seem. The following are the steps to make a snow block:
- First, find light and powdery snow. Compact the snow into an area large enough for the desired block size.
- Next, mark out a square or rectangular shape on the snowpile and cut through the snow with a saw. The depth of the cut should be equal to the desired thickness of the block.
- Then, use a snow knife to cut around the perimeter of the square or rectangle. This will create a block that is the desired thickness and size.
- Finally, brace yourself against the block and dislodge it by pushing it with your body weight.
The result should be a uniform snow block that is the perfect size and shape for building an igloo.
Types of Snow Used in Igloos
When it comes to building an igloo, not just any snow will do. The snow used to construct an igloo needs to be strong, dense, and able to maintain its shape in cold temperatures. In general, there are two main types of snow used in igloos:
- Powder Snow – This type of snow is light and fluffy, making it easy to shovel and shape. However, powder snow is not ideal for igloo construction as it lacks the density and strength required for a sturdy structure.
- Packed Snow – Packed snow is the preferred type of snow for building igloos. This snow has been compacted over time by the wind, creating a dense and strong snowpack. To test if snow is packed well enough for igloo construction, builders will often do a simple poke test, poking the snow with a finger to see if it holds its shape.
When gathering snow for an igloo, Inuit builders will look for areas where packed snow exists naturally, such as in wind-protected areas or on the sides of hills. Some builders may also create their own packed snow by stomping on loose snow to compact it.
The Igloo Snow Block
Once the ideal packed snow has been found, it’s time to start forming the igloo blocks. Inuit builders will typically use a large saw, such as a snow knife, to cut blocks of snow from the packed snow area. These blocks are often around 2 feet long, 1 foot wide, and 6 inches thick.
| Block Size | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 18-24 inches long, 12-18 inches wide, 6 inches thick | 15-20 pounds |
| Medium | 24-30 inches long, 16-20 inches wide, 6-8 inches thick | 25-30 pounds |
| Large | 30-36 inches long, 18-24 inches wide, 8-10 inches thick | 40-60 pounds |
These blocks are then used to construct the igloo’s dome-shaped structure by laying them in a spiral pattern, with each layer slightly overlapping the layer below it. Because the blocks are all made of the same dense, packed snow, they stick together easily once compressed, creating a sturdy and well-insulated structure that can withstand even the coldest temperatures.
Igloos and insulation
When picturing an igloo, many people imagine a small, rounded structure made purely of ice, with no insulation to speak of. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth – igloos are actually incredibly well-insulated structures that have been used for centuries by Inuit communities in the Arctic.
- One of the primary reasons that igloos are so effective at keeping warm is their shape. The rounded dome shape of an igloo means that there are no corners or edges through which heat can escape – making it a highly efficient space for trapping warmth.
- Another key feature of an igloo’s design is the use of compacted snow blocks, which provide excellent insulation due to the tiny air pockets they contain. These pockets trap warm air inside the igloo, preventing it from escaping and keeping the interior temperature much higher than the outside temperatures.
- Additionally, the entrance to an igloo is covered with a tunnel that faces away from the prevailing winds. This helps to prevent cold air from rushing into the igloo and disturbing the warm air inside.
However, even with all these features in place, igloos are still not completely immune to melting. To prevent this from happening, traditional Inuit builders often coat the interior of the igloo with a thin layer of seal oil. The oil seeps into the snow blocks and helps to freeze them in place, creating a waterproof barrier that prevents the blocks from melting and collapsing.
Despite the many challenges associated with living in the Arctic, the ingenious design of the igloo has allowed Inuit communities to thrive in this harsh environment for centuries. As we continue to work towards more sustainable and efficient ways of living, there is much we can learn from their ancient wisdom and resourcefulness.
How igloos provide warmth
Contrary to popular belief, igloos are not just temporary shelters made of ice blocks. They are, in fact, efficient dwellings that are built to provide warmth even in the coldest places on earth. Here are some of the ways on how igloos provide warmth:
- Insulation: Igloos are made of blocks of compacted snow which provides excellent insulation. Snow is actually a great insulator because it contains a lot of air pockets which trap heat very effectively. The thick walls of an igloo act as a barrier against the cold, keeping the interior warm and comfortable.
- Ventilation: Igloos are designed with a small entrance and a low ceiling to trap heat inside. The warm air that you exhale when you breathe escapes through the hole at the top of the igloo, which helps regulate the temperature and keep the interior dry. It also prevents the ice blocks from melting.
- Body Heat: The human body generates a considerable amount of warmth, which can be used to warm up the igloo. When you sleep in an igloo, your body heat gradually warms up the interior, making it more comfortable over time.
Aside from these three methods, some Inuit tribes also used animal hides to cover the entrance of the igloo. This not only provides additional insulation, but it also prevents the wind from blowing in and taking away valuable heat.
The Science of Igloo Warmth
According to scientists, the interior of an igloo can reach up to 40°F (4°C) even if the temperature outside is -30°F (-34°C). This is because of the insulative properties of snow and ice. Snow and ice are poor conductors of heat, which means they do not transfer heat very well.
When you build an igloo, the heat from your body slowly warms up the interior of the igloo. The ice blocks absorb this heat and eventually reach what is known as the “melting point” of ice, which is 32°F (0°C). At this point, the ice blocks start to melt on the surface, which releases heat through the process of latent heat of fusion. This heat warms up the interior of the igloo, which in turn melts more ice blocks. This cycle continues until the interior temperature stabilizes at around 40°F (4°C).
Overall, igloos are a remarkable feat of engineering, and they provide an excellent example of how human ingenuity can overcome even the harshest of environments.
| Pros of Igloos as Dwellings | Cons of Igloos as Dwellings |
|---|---|
| – Excellent insulation | – Limited space |
| – Efficient use of body heat | – Only suitable for temporary dwellings |
| – Lightweight and portable | – Constant maintenance required |
Despite the limitations of igloos as dwellings, they are still an effective and ingenious solution to survive in the most extreme weather conditions.
Importance of ventilation in igloos
One crucial component of igloo construction that prevents the structure from melting is proper ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the buildup of carbon dioxide from human breath and the heat generated by body warmth can cause the ice walls to melt and the air inside to feel stuffy and damp.
While the entrance to an igloo provides some ventilation, it is not enough to maintain a healthy and stable environment. In addition, the entrance can let in cold drafts which can be uncomfortable and dangerous in harsh Arctic weather.
Benefits of ventilation in igloos
- Prevents condensation: Adequate ventilation ensures that moisture from human breath and body heat is circulated out of the igloo, preventing the formation of ice deposits on the walls and ceiling.
- Improves air quality: With proper ventilation, fresh air is circulated inside the igloo, removing stale air and carbon dioxide and preventing the buildup of harmful chemicals that can be hazardous to health.
- Regulates temperature: Ventilation helps regulate the temperature inside the igloo, preventing it from becoming too warm, and also prevents snow and ice from melting too quickly.
Designing ventilation in igloos
Igloo builders use a variety of techniques to create adequate ventilation while still maintaining the structural integrity and insulation of the igloo.
One method is to create a ventilation hole in the ceiling, which allows warm air to rise and escape while also preventing condensation on the walls. Another technique is to create ventilation channels in the walls, which allow air to circulate without letting in cold drafts.
Ventilation in modern igloos
While traditional igloos were designed to be temporary shelters, modern igloos are often used as more permanent dwellings or tourist accommodations in cold climates. In these cases, designers often incorporate modern ventilation systems such as air vents and heat exchangers to improve air quality and regulate temperature. These systems not only make the living environment more comfortable but also ensure the longevity of the structure.
| Benefits of modern ventilation systems in igloos | How it works |
|---|---|
| Improved air quality | Air vents and filters remove stale air and pollutants from inside the igloo, while heat exchangers recycle the warmth of outgoing air, helping to maintain a constant indoor temperature. |
| Energy efficiency | Advanced insulation combined with heat exchangers can dramatically reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the igloo, making it more sustainable and cost-effective. |
How to maintain an igloo’s structure
Building an igloo properly is only half the battle; maintaining its structural integrity is the other half. Luckily, there are a few key strategies for ensuring your igloo stays strong and doesn’t melt away.
- Ventilation: Believe it or not, proper ventilation is important in an igloo. If you don’t have enough ventilation, humidity from your breath can accumulate and cause the inside of the igloo to melt. You’ll want to create a small vent in the roof of the igloo to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Insulation: One of the most important aspects of maintaining an igloo’s structure is proper insulation. You can line the inside of the igloo with a layer of insulating material to help keep heat inside and prevent the walls from melting. This insulation can be made from a variety of materials, including animal hides, snow, or even foam sleeping pads.
- Maintenance: While you’re living in an igloo, it’s important to regularly check and maintain its structure. This can include reinforcing the walls with additional snow blocks, creating a new entrance if the original one starts melting, and even digging a drainage channel around the igloo to prevent water from accumulating and causing structural damage.
Of course, even with proper ventilation and insulation, an igloo is still at risk of melting during warmer weather or in direct sunlight. In these cases, you may need to resort to using a tarp or other protective covering to shield the igloo from the elements. Additionally, it’s important to choose a location for your igloo that is shaded and protected from the sun as much as possible.
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Use compacted snow | Compacted snow makes stronger blocks and is less likely to melt in warmer temperatures. |
| Build on a slope | Building on a slope allows for better drainage and less snow accumulation, which can help prevent melting. |
| Use a cold meter | A cold meter is a simple tool that can help you monitor the temperature inside the igloo and ensure it stays cold enough to prevent melting. |
With these strategies in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to maintain your igloo’s structure and keep it standing strong. Just remember to regularly check on its condition and make any necessary repairs or adjustments as needed.
The Impact of Climate Change on Igloos
Climate change is an inevitable phenomenon that affects various aspects of our planet. The Arctic region, where igloos are predominantly used for shelter, is one of the areas most affected by climate change. Igloos have been a reliable source of protection from the harsh Arctic weather for centuries. However, they are now endangered due to climate change. Below are the impacts of climate change on igloos:
- Rising temperatures: Igloos are designed to withstand the cold temperatures of the Arctic, but rising temperatures due to climate change increase the chances of melting of the igloo walls. The rising temperatures also make snow unstable, which is the main material used in building an igloo.
- Unpredictable weather patterns: Climate change is causing unpredictable weather patterns in the Arctic, which make it difficult to predict how much snow and ice will be available, hence affecting the availability of materials needed to build an igloo.
- Reduced snowfall: Reduced snowfall due to climate change means that there will be less snow available to build an igloo. This has forced the Inuit communities to look for alternative sources of shelter.
Climate change continues to threaten not only the survival of igloos but also the livelihood of the Inuit communities that depend on them for shelter. It is crucial for us to take action to reduce our carbon footprint and slow down climate change to protect the igloos and the Arctic community at large.
The Evolution of Igloos
Igloos have always been regarded as the traditional and reliable shelter of the Inuit communities in the Arctic. The igloo has undergone significant development over the years to cater to the needs of the Inuit communities. Some of the notable changes include:
- Materials: Traditional igloos were made out of snow blocks, but modern igloos have now incorporated other materials, such as plywood, as a form of reinforcement. The use of other materials has made the igloos more durable, easier to build, and less prone to melting.
- Design: The traditional igloo had a dome-shaped design, which was built to withstand the harsh Arctic weather. The design of modern igloos has been modified to include more room for families and storage. Some modern igloos are designed to have a chimney to allow for proper ventilation.
- Technology: With the advent of technology, the construction of igloos has become more efficient. Power tools, such as electric saws, have made it easier to shape snow blocks, making the process faster and less physically demanding.
The evolution of igloos has enabled the Inuit community to continue using the traditional shelters while incorporating modern aspects that meet their needs and make them more comfortable.
The Future of Igloos
The future of igloos remains uncertain as climate change continues to pose a significant threat. However, the Inuit communities have been exploring alternative sources of shelter, such as homes built with modern materials, to ensure their survival in the Arctic. Some of the initiatives undertaken by the Inuit communities include:
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Green energy alternatives | The Inuit communities are exploring alternative sources of green energy, such as wind and solar power, to reduce their carbon footprint and halt climate change. |
| Revival of traditional knowledge | The Inuit communities are reviving traditional knowledge and practices, such as igloo building, to ensure that the knowledge and techniques are passed down to future generations. |
| Collaboration with experts | The Inuit communities are partnering with experts in architecture and engineering to design modern homes that incorporate traditional Inuit knowledge while meeting modern standards of comfort and durability. |
The future of igloos depends on our collective effort to stop climate change. By taking action today, we can ensure that the traditional shelters of the Inuit communities remain standing for generations to come.
Alternative Uses of Igloos
When people think of igloos, they often associate them with igloo living as shown in movies. However, there are various alternative uses of igloos that have been explored by people over the years:
- Coolers: Igloos can be used as coolers for storing food and drinks. In fact, they are great for parties and outdoor events since they can keep food and drinks chilled for a long period of time.
- Shelters: Igloos can be used as temporary shelters for camping or emergency situations. They are durable, portable and can provide insulation against cold temperatures.
- Art: Igloos can be used as art installations or sculptures. In fact, several artists have used igloos as their medium of expression, using light, sound or projections to create a breathtaking display.
Beyond these, people have also explored other alternative uses of igloos. For example, the photo company Fujifilm built an igloo-shaped photo booth which people could step into and have their pictures taken. The booth was highly insulated and kept warm with heated floors to make sure that people didn’t freeze whilst having their pictures taken!
Finally, in the table below, we provide a summary of some of the most interesting and innovative uses of igloos that we could uncover:
| Use | Description |
|---|---|
| Ice Hotels | Hotels made entirely out of ice. They have become popular in places like Sweden and Canada. |
| Polar Research Stations | Igloos are used as temporary research stations in the polar regions. They are easier to build than traditional buildings and can provide decent shelter from the elements. |
| Advertising | Several companies have used igloos as a way to promote their brand. For example, the Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen built a giant igloo-shaped clock for an exhibition in Geneva. |
| Greenhouses | Igloos can be used as greenhouses since they provide a warm environment for plants to grow. |
As we can see, the uses of igloos extend much beyond their traditional purpose of providing shelter in cold environments. Their unique shape and insulating properties make them suitable for a variety of different applications.
Igloo Building Contests and Competitions
Building an igloo is not just a survival skill for the Inuit people, but also a cultural practice. Today, building igloos has become a popular competition in many parts of the world. Igloo building contests and competitions are not only fun but also serve as a way to pay homage to the Inuit culture and to keep the tradition alive.
These contests and competitions usually take place during the winter months in areas where snowfall is abundant. Participants have to build an igloo within a specified time limit in the given location. The competition is usually judged on three main criteria: speed of construction, structural stability, and aesthetics.
- Speed of construction: Participants are given a specific amount of time to build an igloo. This criterion judges the team that can build the igloo the fastest while keeping the structure stable.
- Structural stability: The igloo must be able to withstand wind and snow without collapsing. This criterion judges the strength of the structure and its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Aesthetics: This criterion judges the beauty of the igloo. Many participants get creative with their designs, using different colored blocks of ice and incorporating intricate designs.
Some of the most popular igloo building competitions around the world include the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival in Harbin, China, the Alaska State Fair, and the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous in Whitehorse, Canada.
These events attract participants from all over the world who come together to have fun, appreciate the Inuit culture, and test their skills in building igloos. Some events also have cash prizes for the winners, making the competition even more exciting.
| Competition | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival | Harbin, China | January-February |
| Alaska State Fair | Palmer, Alaska, USA | August-September |
| Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous | Whitehorse, Canada | February |
Participating in an igloo building contest is a fantastic way to experience the cold and snowy weather, bond with teammates, and appreciate the indigenous culture of the Inuit people. It is a competition like no other, and anyone can take part, regardless of age or skill level.
FAQs About How Does an Igloo Not Melt
1. How can an igloo survive melting with all the heat from the sun?
An igloo is built in a specific way to withstand the heat from the sun. It is constructed with compacted snow, which has lower thermal conductivity. Hence, the temperature inside an igloo remains relatively constant.
2. How does the snow in an igloo stay frozen even in temperatures above freezing?
An igloo has a small entrance, which helps retain the cold temperatures inside, even when the outside temperature rises above freezing point. The compacted snow in an igloo maintains its frozen state even in high temperatures due to its high albedo and low thermal conductivity.
3. How do igloo builders manage to build an igloo without the snow melting?
Igloo builders select an area with suitable snow conditions – wet, heavy snow is unsuitable for igloo building. They also work quickly and avoid touching the snow with warm bare hands, as this could cause the snow to melt. They use special tools for cutting and shaping snow blocks, which help maintain their integrity.
4. Do igloos require any insulation to prevent melting?
Igloos do not require any additional insulation. The compacted snow provides enough insulation and the small entrance allows minimal heat exchange with the environment, keeping the temperature inside constant.
5. Can igloos melt if the temperature gets too high?
Igloos can melt if the temperature inside gets too high. However, the compacted snow used in igloos has a high melting point, making it more resistant to melting than loose snow. A well-built igloo can withstand temperatures of up to 60°F without melting.
6. Why do Eskimos build igloos instead of using other materials to construct their dwellings?
Eskimos have been building igloos for thousands of years as they are perfectly suited to the Arctic climate. Igloos are easily built with locally available materials and are well-suited to the nomadic lifestyle of the Eskimo people.
7. Can igloos be used as permanent residences?
Igloos are typically not used as permanent residences as they are more suited to short-term shelter. However, modern igloos, built with advanced materials and insulation, can be used as permanent residences in arctic regions.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our guide on how igloos do not melt. As you can see, igloos are incredibly efficient structures designed to withstand the extreme cold of the arctic climate. They have been used by Eskimos for thousands of years and continue to be relevant even in modern times. If you have any further questions, please feel free to come back and visit us here for more information.