Showing papers on "Permafrost published in 1976"
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01 Jan 1976
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present an overview of the periglacial domain and discuss the effects of permafrost on the global climate and its evolution. But they do not consider the effects on the local environment.
Abstract: PART ONE: THE PERIGLACIAL DOMAIN. 1. INTRODUCTION. 1.1. The periglacial concept. 1.2. Disciplinary considerations. 1.3. The growth of periglacial knowledge. 1.4. The periglacial domain. 1.5. The scope of periglacial geomorphology. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 2. PERIGLACIAL LANDSCAPES? 2. 1 Introduction. 2. 2 Proglacial, paraglacial or periglacial? 2. 3 Unglaciated periglacial terrain. 2. 4 Relict periglacial landscapes. 2. 5. Conclusions. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 3. PERIGLACIAL CLIMATES. 3.1 Boundary conditions. 3.2 Regional climates. 3.3 Ground climates. 3.4. Periglacial climates and the cryosphere. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. PART TWO: PRESENT-DAY PERIGLACIAL ENVIRONMENTS. 4. COLD-CLIMATE WEATHERING. 4. 1 Introduction. 4. 2 Ground freezing. 4. 3 Freezing and thawing. 4. 4. The ground temperature regime. 4. 5. Rock (frost?) shattering. 4. 6. Chemical weathering. 4. 7. Cryogenic weathering. 4. 8. Cryobiological weathering. 4. 9. Cryopedology. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 5. PERMAFROST. 5. 1. Introduction. 5. 2. Thermal and physical properties. 5. 3. How does permafrost aggrade? 5. 4. Distribution of permafrost. 5. 5. Relict permafrost. 5. 6. Permafrost hydrology. 5. 7 Permafrost and terrain conditions. 5. 8. The active layer. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 6. SURFACE FEATURES OF PERMAFROST. 6. 1. Introduction. 6. 2. Thermal-contraction-crack polygons. 6. 3. Organic terrain. 6. 4. Rock glaciers and permafrost creep. 6. 5. Frost mounds. 6. 6. Active-layer phenomena. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 7. GROUND ICE. 7. 1. Definition and description. 7. 2. Classification. 7. 3. Ice distribution. 7. 4. Cryolithology and cryostratigraphy. 7.5 Ice wedges. 7. 6. Massive ice and massive-icy bodies. 8. THERMOKARST. 8. 1 Introduction. 8. 2. Causes of thermokarst. 8. 3. Thaw-related processes. 8. 4. Thermokarst sediments and structures. 8.5. Ice-wedge thermokarst relief. 8. 6. Thaw lakes and depressions. 8. 7. Thermokarst-affected terrain. 8. 8. Man-Induced thermokarst Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 9. HILLSLOPE PROCESSES AND SLOPE EVOLUTION. 9. 1. Introduction. 9. 2. Slope morphology. 9. 3. Mass wasting. 9. 4. Slow mass-wasting. 9. 5. Rapid mass-wasting. 9.6 Slopewash. 9.7. Frozen and thawing slopes. 9. 8. Cold-climate slope evolution. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 10. AZONAL PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS. 10. 1. Introduction. 10. 2. Fluvial processes and landforms. 10.3. Aeolian processes and sediments. 10.4 Coastal processes and landforms. PART THREE: WUATERNARY AND LATE-PLEISTOCENE PERIGLACIAL ENVIRONMENTS. 11. QUATERNARY PERIGLACIAL CONDITIONS. 11. 1. Introduction. 11. 2. The time scale and climatic fluctuations. 11. 3. Global (eustatic) considerations. 11. 4. Pleistocene periglacial environments of high latitude. 11. 5. Pleistocene periglacial environments of mid-latitude. 11. 6. Conclusions. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 12. EVIDENCE FOR PAST PERMAFROST. 12. 1. Introduction. 12. 2. Past permafrost aggradation. 12. 3. Past permafrost degradation. 12. 4. Summary. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. 13. PERIGLACIAL LANDSCAPE MODIFICATION. 13. 1. Introduction. 13. 2. Intense frost action. 13. 3. Intense wind action. 13. 4. Fluvial activity. 13. 5. Slope modification. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. PART FOUR: APPLIED PERIGLACIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY. 14. GEOTECHNICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS. 14. 1. Introduction. 14. 2. Cold-regions engineering. 14. 3. Provision of municipal services and urban infrastructure. 14. 4. Construction of buildings and houses. 14. 5. Problems of water supply. 14. 6. Roads, bridges, railways and airstrips. 14. 7. Oil and gas development. 14. 8. Mining activities. Advanced reading. Discussion topics 15. CLIMATE CHANGE AND PERIGLACIAL ENVIRONMENTS. 15. 1. Global change and cold regions. 15. 2. Climate change and permafrost. 15. 3. Future responses. 15. 4. The urban infrastructure. 15. 5. Conclusions. Advanced reading. Discussion topics. References. Index.
1,086 citations
TL;DR: Fossil ice and sand wedges are the most diagnostic and widespread indicators of former permafrost, but identification is difficult and any single wedge is untrustworthy as mentioned in this paper.
227 citations
TL;DR: Frost creep and gelifluction are the cold-climate representatives of mass-wasting processes that occur in a broad range of environments as mentioned in this paper, and they are not generally considered to be indicators of permafrost.
110 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a design philosophy for piles in ice and ice-rich permafrost is proposed, whereby the pile settlements over the design life of the structure are retained within acceptable limits.
Abstract: A design philosophy for piles in ice and ice-rich permafrost is proposed, whereby the pile settlements over the design life of the structure are retained within acceptable limits.The secondary cree...
56 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors describe and interpret major permafrost landforms of Hudson Bay and James Bay, Quebec-Labrador Peninsula, within an ecological perspective, and describe the landforms from a geologic perspective.
Abstract: Major permafrost landforms of the discontinuous permafrost zone of Hudson Bay and James Bay, Quebec–Labrador Peninsula, are described and interpreted within an ecological perspective. These landfor...
47 citations
TL;DR: Pingos are large frost mounds which develop in permafrost as the result of the segregation of massive ground-ice lenses as mentioned in this paper, and they are known to occur in many high latitude regions.
43 citations
TL;DR: Permafrost is synonymous with perennially frozen ground as discussed by the authors, a euphonic term coined during World War II to attract the attention of American policy makers to construction problems in the frozen northland.
Abstract: Permafrost is synonymous with perennially frozen ground. It is a euphonic term coined during World War II to attract the attention of American policy makers to construction problems in the frozen northland (Muller 1945). The term was defined originally as " . . . a thickness of soil or other superficial deposit, or even of bed rock, at a variable depth beneath the surface of the Earth in which a temperature below freezing has existed continually for a long time (from two to tens of thousands of years)" (Muller 1945, p. 3). The definition is based exclusively on temperature, irrespective of texture, degree of induration, water content, or lithologic character. Problems arise in the strict application of the definition to ground that is precisely at the freezing point of fresh water (rather than below) or to material containing salts which lower the freezing point below that of fresh water. Hence, a more restricted definition has been introduced: "The thermal condition in soil or rock of having temperatures below O°C persist over at least two consecutive winters and the intervening summer" (Brown & Kupsch 1974). (Soil is used in both these defini tions in the broad geologic or engineering sense of unconsolidated earth materials rather than in a pedologic sense.) Ice does not have to be present. Permafrost extends over several million square kilometers in North America alone. With the recent advent of the Alaska pipeline and related construction problems, special priority has been given again, as it was during World War II (Black 1954, Terzaghi 1952), to the recognition, character, and effects of perma frost. A recent comprehensive review of permafrost is available (National Academy of Sciences 1973), along with several excellent books (Bird 1967, Brown 1970, Embleton & King 1968, Washburn 1973). Reference to these works or to the literature cited therein is axiomatic for most statements in this paper. Relatively few other references need be cited here. A host of adjectives is applied to permafrost to connote spccial meanings, most of which are self-explanatory, such as contemporary, relic, continuous, discontinu ous, sporadic, dry, ice-rich, marginal, submarine, and syngenetic. The permafrost table, or surface, is the upper boundary of permafrost. It is the lower limit of the
36 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the electromagnetic coupling between two vertical-axis loops of wire is measured as a function of frequency, for frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and the results indicate that two-loop induction sounding is an effective method for mapping permafrost characteristics.
Abstract: In two-loop electromagnetic sounding, the electromagnetic coupling between two vertical-axis loops of wire is measured as a function of frequency, for frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. If the electrical structure of the earth beneath the loops is horizontally stratified, these data may then be interpreted in terms of a sequence of layer resistivities and thicknesses. This interpretation is accomplished by computing a series of curves for various resistivity profiles and comparing them with the field data to determine which matches best. Calculation of the theoretical models is carried out by applying a linear filter to solve the appropriate integral expression. Interpretation is aided by using an interactive nonlinear least-squares algorithm iteratively to adjust the model parameters. This procedure was used to interpret two-loop induction soundings made along the Arctic Slope of Alaska during 1969 to determine permafrost thickness and character. The results indicate that two-loop induction sounding is an effective method for mapping permafrost characteristics. 19 figures.
35 citations
TL;DR: Permafrost core sediments, associated with the last intrusion of the Ross Ice Shelf in the New Harbor region, were deposited in marine (0-85 m deep) as well as freshwater environments (100-125 m).
Abstract: Permafrost core sediments, associated with the last intrusion of the Ross Ice Shelf in the New Harbor region, were deposited in marine (0–85 m deep) as well as freshwater environments (100–125 m). Oxygen isotope ratio measurements on these cores provide palaeoclimatic information and show that the extension of the Ross Ice Shelf predates 150,000 yr BP, whereas the radiocarbon date of its retreat is about 5,800 yr b.p.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors deal with predictions and measured observations of the behaviour of a warm gas pipeline on permafrost, and describe the theoretical background for a mathematical model for the pipeline.
Abstract: This paper deals with predictions and measured observations of the behaviour of a warm gas pipeline on permafrost In the paper, descriptions of the theoretical background for a mathematical model
01 Jan 1976
TL;DR: In this paper, the in situ relative dielectric constant ϵr and skin depth δ of hard rock in a permafrost region were determined by measurements of transmission attenuation and transmission phase shift.
Abstract: Experiments were conducted to determine the in situ relative dielectric constant ϵr and skin depth δ of hard rock in a permafrost region. In the Brooks Range in northern Alaska, measurements of transmission attenuation and transmission phase shift were done between the surface and the hole as well as from hole to hole over the frequency range of 5 to 50 MHz. Relative dielectric-constant and skin-depth results were in the ranges 5 to 30 and 20 to 140 m, respectively.
TL;DR: The most important amelioration measure tested was the use of snow fences to increase snow depth and hence reduce winter heat losses, which affect the permafrost much more than changing the summer heat input conditions as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Permafrost thermal amelioration techniques have been tested for 4 years near Schefferville (mean annual temperature −6 °C). The most important amelioration measure tested was the use of snow fences to increase snow depth and hence reduce winter heat losses, which affect the permafrost much more than changing the summer heat input conditions. However, when different summer treatments were tested, stripping the vegetation, darkening the ground and using thin transparent covers proved beneficial. Monitoring included deep ground temperature measurements (to 25 m), radiation instruments, lysimeters, and measurement of ground thermal properties. At 5 m depth, between 20 and 40 × 106 Jm−2 are gained and lost each year under natural conditions, whereas the amelioration gave a continuous gain of 20 × 106 Jm−2 per annum (nearly 2% of net radiation), increasing mean temperature by 2.5 °over 4 years. At the 10 m depth corresponding gains were 10 × 106 Jm−2 and 1.5°. The rocks (iron-rich) have high thermal conductivit...
TL;DR: In this paper, a method for measuring root and rhizome growth along temperature gradients in the field and under controlled conditions is described for root and root growth along permafrost.
Abstract: A method is described for measuring root and rhizome growth along temperature gradients in the field and under controlled conditions. Wedgeshaped Plexiglas sod boxes equipped with thermocouples are inserted into tundra soils over permafrost. After thaw has started, root and rhizome increases in length can be measured at intervals through the growing season by marking the positions of their tips on the sloping Plexiglas sides of the box. A similar box is used in a temperature-controlled coolant bath system in a controlled environment chamber. This latter system can simulate field temperature gradients down to and into permafrost. The simulated permafrost level can be raised or lowered by changing the temperature of the circulating ethylene glycol bath.
TL;DR: In this paper, analytical and semi-analytical results relating to the transient and steady-state thermal regime around uninsulated and insulated pipelines buried in permafrost are presented.
Abstract: Analytical and semi-analytical results relating to the transient and steady-state thermal regime around uninsulated and insulated pipelines buried in permafrost are presented.A comparison of the results with some published numerical work is included.
01 Apr 1976
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluate present rates of change in coastal morphology, with particular emphasis on rates and patterns of man-induced changes and locate areas where coastal morphology is likely to be changed by man's activities and evaluate the effect of these changes, if any.
Abstract: The purpose of this project was to evaluate present rates of change in coastal morphology, with particular emphasis on rates and patterns of man-induced changes and to locate areas where coastal morphology is likely to be changed by man's activities and evaluate the effect of these changes, if any. Preliminary results suggest that the coastline is definitely eroding in permafrost terrain; and in other cases permafrost is rapidly aggrading in areas of recent deposition.
TL;DR: In order to detect the existence of permafrost and study its relation to ground temperature distribution in high altitude of the Himalayas, ground temperature measurements were carried out in the Khumbu region and Hidden Valley, Mukut Himal.
Abstract: In order to detect the existence of permafrost and study its relation to ground temperature distribution in high altitude of the Himalayas, ground temperature measurements were carried out in the Khumbu region and Hidden Valley, Mukut Himal. The results indicate that permafrost occurs above 4900-5000 m in the Khumbu region and above 5000 m in Hidden Valley. The lapse rates of the ground temperature at a depth of 50 cm below the surface are about 0.9-1.0°C/100 m and about 0.4°C/100 m above and below the lower attitudinal limit of permafrost distribution in both regions.
TL;DR: In this article, measurements of soil moisture and temperature were made during the summer of 1973 in an arctic tundra region underlain by shallow ice-rich permafrost.
Abstract: Measurements of soil moisture and temperature were made during the summer of 1973 in an arctic tundra region underlain by shallow ice-rich permafrost. Three sites near Barrow, Alaska were studied representing a range of internal soil profile and topographic drainage conditions. Tundra soils exhibit different soil moisture regimes depending upon drainage conditions. Poorly drained soils may be waterlogged and much cooler than well-drained soils which are unsaturated. During the spring high pore-water pressures exist just below the frozen layer and consequently a steep downward hydraulic gradient exists. During the summer the soil moisture regime is less dynamic than other portions of the year. A water table was developed in the poorly drained soils studied. During the fall, the soil freezes from the surface and the permafrost table causing a region of low pore-water pressure to develop near the center of the active layer. The poorly drained saturated soils are rapidly dried during the fall.
TL;DR: In this paper, a model of soil water occurrence and flow is applied as a basis for analysis of moisture in the environment of organisms, and the seasonal variation of soil moisture is shown.
Abstract: Water in permafrost areas is available to the organisms during a short time and in a restricted space. Models of soil water occurrence and flow are applicated as basis for analysis of moisture in the environment of organisms. Soil moisture, available for the transpiration process, has been calculated as to soil in permafrost. The seasonal variation of soil moisture is shown.
TL;DR: In this paper, a study of permafrost as an aquaclude for the maintenance of a pond above the regional water table was carried out in a small drainage basin in the Colville River delta of northern Alaska.
Abstract: Data obtained during several seasons of field research on a small drainage basin in the Colville River delta of northern Alaska were used in a study of permafrost as an aquaclude for the maintenance of a pond above the regional water table. The development of the active layer of permafrost in the basin and the water budget of the pond were monitored. It was shown that the permafrost table enables the general form of the basin's subaerial surface to be maintained throughout the thaw season. The resulting prevention of percolation, when combined with a low evaporation rate, is sufficient to ensure that the pond is perennial.
TL;DR: In this paper, the rate of mass movement was proportional to the square root of the gradient of the slope and ranged from 0.4 cm/day (150 cm/year) to 0.8 cm/month, greater with one or two digits than those previously reported.
Abstract: Periglacial landforms occur in the latitudinal range between the forest line and snow line in Hidden Valley and its southern outer slope. Since most of Hidden Valley is situated above the vegetation limit, sorted patterned ground and solifluction slopes cover vast areas, but vegetated patterned ground, such as earth hummocks and turf-banked terraces, is found only along the streams drained from glaciers. The occurrences of large sorted polygons and solifluction lobes are likely to be associated with the existence of permafrost. The occurrences of large sorted stripes on the supraglacial moraine seems to indicate that the glacier ice is stagnant in this part. The stripe pattern of small sorted stripes observed at 5630 m starts to become clear on gradients of more than 5° and is still clear on gradients of 40°. The rate of mass movement was proportional to the square root of the gradient of the slope and ranged from 0.4 cm/day (150 cm/year) to 0.8 cm/day, greater with one or two digits than those previously reported. Such a high rate seems to be induced by both solifluction and frost creep intensified by soaked and loose states above permafrost table, and by a steep slope angle.
09 Jun 1976
23 Mar 1976
TL;DR: In this paper, the subsea permafrost information is urgently needed in support of decisions to be made on national defense and security, national energy needs, and environmental considerations, and it is very important to remember the indigenous population of northern Alaska.
Abstract: : Information on subsea permafrost is beginning to reach a critical focus as a result of the proposed industrial development. Subsea permafrost information is urgently needed in support of decisions to be made on national defense and security, national energy needs, and environmental considerations. It is very important to remember the indigenous population of northern Alaska. In order to develop their economic independence, the natives will be building breakwaters, winter harbors, piers, etc. in the near future. Information supplied by the subsea permafrost investigations is required by the decision-makers and design engineers for these projects.
01 Jan 1976
01 Jan 1976
TL;DR: In this paper, a standard 4 X 5 foot metal snow pillow was installed in the black spruce/permafrost environment of Interior Alaska and instrumented to determine if the presence of the pillow had any appreciable effects on the thermal regime, and the possible migration of water vapor from the thick organic soils into the snowpack during the extended cold winter period.
Abstract: A standard 4 X 5 foot metal snow pillow was installed in the black spruce/permafrost environment of Interior Alaska and instrumented to determine if the presence of the pillow had any appreciable effects on the thermal regime, and the possible migration of water vapor from the thick organic soils into the snowpack during the extended cold winter period. In hopes of separating the two effects, should they both exist, a double layer of 4 mil plastic sheeting of the same size and shape as that of the pillow was installed at the same site. The results of the first winter's operation indicate that the pillow had minor effects on the temperature profiles from the air/snow interface to a point 30 cm below the soil surface. The primary effect appeared to be one of slowing the rate of temperature fluctuation.