Climate affecting Glaciated Landscapes Flashcards
What are aeolian processes?
Aeolian processes are erosion, transportation and deposition carried out by wind, which contribute to the shaping of glaciated landscapes, particularly acting upon fine material previously deposited by ice or meltwater.
What is the significance of precipitation in determining the mass balance of a glacier?
Precipitation is a key factor in determining the mass balance of a glacier, as it provides the main input of snow, sleet and rain.
What is the typical precipitation amount in Vostock station in Antarctica?
The mean annual precipitation total in Vostock station in Antarctica is only 4.5 mm.
What is the typical precipitation amount in Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies?
In Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies, over 600 mm per annum is typical.
What is the seasonal pattern of precipitation in Jasper?
In Jasper, January precipitation averages about 25 mm, while in June it is 100 mm. More of the January precipitation is snow, whereas in June most falls as rain.
Is there much seasonal variation in precipitation in Antarctica?
In Antarctica, there is very little difference in precipitation between the highest and lowest months, and thus much less seasonal variation.
How does the seasonal variation in precipitation affect the mass balance of a glacier?
The greater the seasonal variation in precipitation, the more varied the mass balance of the glacier will be.
What is the significance of temperature in relation to glacier melting?
If temperatures rise above 0°C, accumulated snow and ice will start to melt and become an output of the system.
Why are ice sheets so thick in polar regions despite very low precipitation inputs?
In high latitude locations, temperatures may never rise above zero and so no melting occurs, which explains why ice sheets are so thick in polar regions despite very low precipitation inputs.
