How does sea ice change the exchange of energy between the Arctic Ocean and the atmosphere?

Sea ice acts as a critical regulator of energy exchange between the Arctic Ocean and the atmosphere by serving as a physical and thermal barrier.12

• Thermal Insulation: Snow-covered sea ice functions as an effective insulator, significantly restricting heat loss from the relatively warm ocean to the colder atmosphere.1
• Radiation and Albedo: Sea ice has a high albedo, meaning it reflects a large proportion of incoming solar radiation back into the atmosphere, which helps maintain cooler surface temperatures. Conversely, open water absorbs more solar energy, creating an ice-albedo feedback loop that accelerates melting.123
• Barrier to Transfer: The ice cover impedes evaporation and suppresses wind stress and mixing. However, cracks in the ice, known as leads and polynyas, allow for significant turbulent heat and mass transfer between the ocean and the atmosphere during winter.21
• Momentum Transfer: The formation of pressure ridges creates rough surfaces that catch the wind, enhancing the transfer of momentum from the atmosphere to the ocean as the ice moves.1