Deformation in the Vicinity of Ice Divides

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Abstract
Numerical calculations by finite elements show that the variation of horizontal velocity with depth in the vicinity of a symmetric, isothermal, non-slipping ice ridge deforming on a flat bed is approximately consistent with prediction from laminar flow theory except in a zone within about four ice thicknesses of the divide. Within this near-divide zone horizontal shear strain-rate is less concentrated near the bottom and downward velocity is less rapid in comparison to the flanks. The profiles over depth of horizontal and vertical velocity approach being linear and parabolic respectively. Calculations for various surface elevation profiles show these velocity profile shapes are insensitive to the ice-sheet geometry.

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