Modeling a variable thickness sea ice cover

• Main Author: Hibler, W. D., III
• Language: unknown
• Published: 1980
• Subjects: 48; Canadian Archipelago; Sea ice
• Online Access: http://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19810038148

A numerical model simulating a variable thickness sea ice cover over a seasonal cycle is presented. The model includes a fixed depth mixed-layer formulation with open water heat absorption and lateral melting terms, and a mechanical distribution function consistent with the physics of the ridging process. The equibrium simulation results in realistic geographical ice thickness variations of April ice along the Canadian Archipelago which exceed 7 m, and thicknesses of about 2 m along the Alaskan North Slope. Ice velocity fields were realistic in shape but 25% larger than the net ice station drift over a year; sensitivity simulations indicated a reduced average annual ice export rate of 0.04 Sv as compared to 0.09 Sv for the equilibrium simulation.