Chapter 17: Problem 5

Trace the evolution of glacial ice from fresh fallen snow.

Short Answer

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The evolution of glacial ice from snow involves a four-step transformation process: fresh snowfall is subjected to more snow, reducing its air content and forming a denser granular snow, or firn. Over time, the firn is further compressed, expelling residual air and facilitating the growth of ice crystals. Eventually, the fully dense ice becomes part of a flowing glacier.

Step by step solution

Fresh Snow Fall

The transformation process begins with falling snowflakes. These snowflakes contain a lot of air and are very light. Over time, they begin to compact under the weight of new snowfall.

Formation of Firn

As more and more snow falls, the underlying layers are subjected to increasing pressure which leads to a reduction in the air content causing the formation of granular snow or firn. This granular snow, or firn, is more dense than fresh snow.

Transition to Glacial Ice

Over the years, the firn is further compacted and the air spaces between the grains are gradually reduced and this process eventually leads to the formation of glacial ice. The compacted firn changes into solid ice as time progresses, air is forced out and the ice crystals grow. It can take up to a hundred or more years for firn to turn into true glacial ice.

Formation of Glacial Ice

The ice reaches its full density and can no longer be compressed. It becomes part of a flowing glacier, marking the end of the snowflake's transformation into glacial ice.

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Trace the evolution of glacial ice from fresh fallen snow.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Fresh Snow Fall

Formation of Firn

Transition to Glacial Ice

Formation of Glacial Ice

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