A fully three-dimensional finite-element model applied to velocities on Storglaciären, Sweden

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A finite-element model that solves the stress-balance equations for glacier dynamics in three dimensions has been developed by extending previous flow-plane models. This model retains all terms of the stress tensor and uses a Glen-type power law for viscosity calculations. In the paper, the model is applied to Storglaciären, Sweden, to explore both the glacier’s dynamics and the model’s characteristics. Values of the stiffness parameterBof 0.20–0.22 MPa year1/nwere required to match observed strain rates on Storglaciären. Overall velocities required imposition of a problematically small sliding speed. Stress fields implied by the model simulation showed that the glacier receives its largest driving force from a high-slope zone near the equilibrium line, and that a large proportion of the resistive stress comes from lateral drag. Lateral drag is enhanced on this glacier by being frozen to its sidewalls and by a turning of the main flow as it comes out of the main, or northern, cirque.

This publication has 16 references indexed in Scilit: