In message , JohnD
writes
"John Hall" wrote in message
...

Ah. I've been wondering what the difference between "extent" and "area"
was, but I think that implicitly answers my question. So the "area" is
the total surface area of the frozen bits, while the "extent" is the
area that is at least partially frozen?
=============================

Yes, broadly correct I think. But a more formal answer at:

http://nsidc.org/cryosphere/seaice/d...rminology.html

Thanks, John.
--
John Hall
"One can certainly imagine the myriad of uses
for a hand-held iguana maker"
Hobbes (the tiger, not the philosopher!)