Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/11681/5959
Title: Accumulation patterns on the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: Mock, S. J.
Keywords: Glaciers
Glacier movement
Glacier growth
Mass balance
Snow
Accumulation
Forecasting
Snow surveys
Snow cover
Snow cover distribution
Snow cover mapping
Mathematical analysis
Mathematical models
Greenland
Ice
Ice sheet
Ice cap
Ecology
Publisher: Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (U.S.)
Engineer Research and Development Center (U.S.)
Series/Report no.: Research report (Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (U.S.)) ; 233.
Description: Research Report
Abstract: All available mean annual accumulation data on the Greenland ice sheet (excluding the Thule Peninsula) have been collected and analyzed using multiple regression techniques to develop equations capable of predicting mean annual accumulation. The analysis was carried out for north Greenland, south Greenland, and for the transition zone between the two major regions. The resulting equations show that mean annual accumulation can be predicted from the independent parameters, latitude, longitude, and elevation. The patterns of accumulation are shown in a series of isohyetal maps (contours of accumulation in terms of water). The major feature shown is a well defined asymmetry in accumulation; a pronounced east slope maximum in south Greenland and an equally pronounced west slope maximum in north Greenland. Poleward of 69°N, isohyets decrease in elevation to the north. Mean annual accumulation ranges from > 90 g/cm^2 in southeast Greenland to < 15 g/cm^2 in northeast Greenland. A brief discussion of mass balance estimates of the Greenland ice sheet and of the relevance of this study to them is included.
Rights: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/11681/5959
Appears in Collections:Research Report

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