Final answer:
P.e.r.m.a.f.rost consists of permanently frozen water in the soil.
Step-by-step explanation:
P.e.r.m.a.f.rost refers to soil, sediment, or rock that remains at or below freezing temperature (0°C or 32°F) for two or more consecutive years. It's composed of a combination of soil, ice, and rocks, wherein the water content remains in a frozen state, even during summer months. This frozen condition affects various landscapes, from tundra regions to some alpine environments.
The formation of p.e.r.m.a.f.rost occurs due to a balance between the freezing temperatures and the insulating properties of the surface materials. It's sensitive to changes in climate, and global warming poses a significant threat by potentially thawing vast expanses of p.e.r.m.a.f.rost. This thawing can lead to various environmental issues, such as altering ecosystems, releasing trapped greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide, and impacting infrastructure built on once-stable ground.
Correct answer: P.e.r.m.a.f.rost