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The term "polar cap" can refer to two distinct geographical features. On Mars, a polar cap is a white spot at each pole that changes size with the seasons, composed of frozen carbon dioxide and water ice.12

On Earth, polar regions are areas around the North and South Poles. The Arctic region is centered on the North Pole and characterized by extreme climates, unique plant and animal life, and permafrost. The Antarctic region, centered on the South Pole, is a continental landmass covered by a massive ice sheet. These polar regions are crucial for understanding global climate change, as they are warming at a significantly faster rate than the rest of the world.34

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