Modelling the shapes of glaciers: an introduction. (8th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Faraoni, Valerio
• Is Part Of: European journal of physics. Volume 40:Number 2(2019:Mar.)
• Publication Date: 2019-02-08
• Subjects: glaciers -- physics curriculum -- glacier thickness -- shear stress; Physics -- Periodicals; Physics -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Europe -- Periodicals; 530
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6404/aaff0b
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-0807

Abstract

Abstract: We discuss models of the local thickness of glaciers and ice caps. Assuming perfectly plastic ice, as was done in the early days of glaciology, originates models (presented here) that capture some of the features of glaciers, but do not recover real life systems. The realistic assumption that ice follows Glen's law relating non-linearly strain rates and stresses is the basis of the glacier profile models accepted nowadays. Comparing the two models is useful to physics students to understand the consequences of material properties, and to earth science students to contrast, and better understand, the current glacier models.