Unexpected new mechanism reveals how molecules become trapped in ice

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Ice is ubiquitous in nature—found within terrestrial and astrophysical environments alike—and contains many atoms and molecules trapped inside. For example, ice beneath the world’s oceans hosts a vast reservoir of greenhouse gases, which if released would have a profound effect on climate change.

On the earth’s surface, seasonal ice and permafrost-covered regions represent a vast reservoir for the collection, concentration and release of environmental and trace gases—encompassing national security concerns about the persistence and fate of intentionally released dangerous chemical species.

- See more at: http://news.uchicago.edu/article/2014/09/30/unexpected-new-mechanism-reveals-how-molecules-become-trapped-ice#sthash.YYoXtUYa.dpuf