Why is it colder in Antarctica than in the Arctic?

4 Answers. Antarctica is colder than the Arctic for two reasons. First, much of the continent is more than 3 kilometres (2 mi) above sea level, and temperature decreases with elevation. read more

Antarctica (the South Pole) is land surrounded by oceans, while the Arctic (surrounding the North Pole) is an ocean almost completely surrounded by continents and Greenland. The Arctic isn't quite as cold as Antarctica, and here are some reasons why: A massive ice sheet covers almost all of the Antarctic continent. read more

During the winter, the size of Antarctica doubles as the surrounding sea water freezes, effectively blocking heat transfer from the warmer surrounding ocean. Antarctica has a higher average elevation than any other continent on Earth which results in even colder temperatures. read more