CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Carey, S.K.; and Woo, M-K.
Date : 1998
Title : A case study of active layer thaw and its controlling factors.
Publication : Permafrost, Seventh International Conference, June 23-27, Yellowknife, Canada. Edited by: A.G. Lewkowicz and M. Allard. Université Laval, Centre d'études nordiques, Collection Nordicana.
Issue : 57:
Page(s) : 127-132.
Abstract
The roles of energy input and thermal properties of the soil on active layer thaw have been considered by modelling or studied piecemeal in the field. This paper reports a case study, undertaken near Resolute, Northwest Territories, Canada, that makes direct comparisons of the relative importance of ground heat flux, thermal properties and ice content effects on ground thaw. Results from the sites did not indicate a simple relationship between ground heat flux and active layer thaw. Soil thermal properties are related to thaw depth except for sites where there is abundant ground ice. Energy balance considerations revealed that large ice contents lead to a prolonged zero-curtain effect and facilitate downward heat conduction to the permafrost. The consequence is shallow thaws for the active layers with ice rich soils.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology