Frost Depth

• Main Authors: Sharratt, Brenton S., McCool, Donald K.
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln 2005
• Subjects: permafrost
• Online Access: https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/usdaarsfacpub/1405; https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/context/usdaarsfacpub/article/2410/viewcontent/Sharrat_MAS_2005_Frost_Depth.pdf

Freezing and thawing of soil is a common occurrence throughout the world. Indeed, approximately 50% of the Earth landmass is frozen at some time during the annual cycle, with 20% of the land underlain by permafrost (Sharratt et al., 1997). Seasonal freezing of soils with sparse vegetation and snow cover can occur to depths of 3.5 m (Kennedy & Sharratt, 1997; Shul’gin, 1965) while seasonal frost has been found to penetrate to depths of >6 m below paved runways (Carlson & Kersten, 1953). The extensiveness of soil freezing and the impact of freezing and thawing on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils demand a thorough assessment as to the timing and depth to which freezing occurs in soil.