Calving

Calving

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Calving is the process by which a glacier or iceberg breaks off from a larger mass of ice. This phenomenon is a significant aspect of the cryosphere and plays a crucial role in the dynamics of glaciers and ice sheets. Calving is also observed in ice shelves and is a major contributor to the formation of icebergs.

Process

Calving occurs when the forward motion of a glacier or ice shelf causes stress to build up at the edge, leading to the formation of cracks and crevices. These cracks eventually propagate through the ice, causing large chunks to break off. The process can be influenced by various factors, including the temperature of the ice, the presence of meltwater, and the structural integrity of the glacier.

Types of Calving

There are several types of calving, including:

• Tabular Calving: This occurs when large, flat pieces of ice break off, often forming icebergs with a tabular shape.
• Non-Tabular Calving: This involves the breaking off of irregularly shaped pieces of ice.
• Subaqueous Calving: This type occurs below the waterline and can lead to the sudden release of large volumes of ice.

Impact on Sea Level

Calving contributes to sea level rise by adding ice mass to the ocean. When icebergs formed through calving melt, they contribute to the overall volume of water in the ocean. This process is particularly significant in regions like Greenland and Antarctica, where large ice sheets are present.

Monitoring and Research

Scientists monitor calving events using various methods, including satellite imagery, time-lapse photography, and on-site observations. Understanding calving is essential for predicting future changes in sea level and for studying the health and stability of glaciers and ice sheets.

Related Pages

• Glacier
• Iceberg
• Cryosphere
• Ice sheet
• Ice shelf
• Sea level rise
• Greenland ice sheet
• Antarctic ice sheet

See Also

• Glaciology
• Climate change
• Meltwater