Variational Methods for Glacier Mechanics Problems

• Published in: Journal of Glaciology
• Main Author: Oakberg, Robert G.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1981
• Subjects: Earth-Surface Processes; Journal of Glaciology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0022143000011199; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0022143000011199

Abstract The object of the research is to determine whether direct methods from the calculus of variations can provide convenient approximate solutions of complex problems in glacier mechanics. The Ritz technique is used to minimize an appropriate functional. Coordinate functions obtained from a finite-element model are combined with a coordinate function that is the solution of a related problem. The finite-element coordinate functions make localized adjustments to the related solution. Solutions of two sample problems are presented. An analysis of the closure of an intergranular vein in ice at the melting point is based upon a variational principle for velocities. An analysis of the flow of ice in a cylindrical channel is based upon a variational principle for stresses.