Changes in Texture and Fabric of Particles in Glacial Traction with Distance from Source, Mỳrdalsjökull, Iceland

• Published in: Journal of Glaciology
• Main Author: Humlum, Ole
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1985
• Subjects: Earth-Surface Processes; glacier; Ice cap; Iceland; Journal of Glaciology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0022143000006390; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0022143000006390

Abstract Evolution of sedimentological characteristics for traction debris is investigated along a transport path down-glacier from a subglacial point source at the northern rim of the ice cap MỲrdalsjökull, Iceland. Losses and gains from this path are discussed. Close to mature characteristics as to particle size, shape, roundness, and fabric are developed after only short basal transport, about 500 m, while further transport only results in minor changes. This development is interpreted as the result of selective subglacial lodgement of large particles and/or particles with longitudinal α-axis orientation, while particles of median size and/or oblique orientation tend to stay in basal transport. Implications for basal sliding and subglacial sedimentation patterns are discussed.