Inverting Ice-Stream Velocities for Basal Friction (Project ID=ice-1)
Faculty Sponsor Todd Dupont
      The flow and distribution of subglacial water is critical to lubricating the flow of ice above it, and thereby influences ice dynamics more generally. Interest in the dynamics of ice sheets derives in part from their potential to contribute to large, and possibly rapid, variations in sea-level rise. Observations over the last decade have provided strong evidence for highly dynamic subglacial hydrology under some of the largest outlets of the major ice sheet. This includes the inferred movement of subglaical water pockets over large horizontal distances under large thicknesses of ice. At the same time it has become clear that there a vast array of at least quasi-stable water pockets, or lakes, under these ice sheets.
      What leads to stable versus transient water pockets? What might cause an initially stable water pocket to move? What are the important feedbacks between subglacial water flow and ice flow? These are some of the fundamental questions we will address as part of an ongoing research effort using analytic and numerical model experiments. Prospective students should be familiar with calculus and have some experience with programming. (Project Time Allocations: Computer Lab/White Board: 100%, Chemistry Lab 0%, Field Work 0%)

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