Glacial geomorphology: modeling processes and landforms

Abstract

The primary goal of glacial geomorphology is to provide physically-based explanations of the past, present and future impacts of glaciers and ice sheets on landform and landscape development. To achieve this requires the integration of studies of landform with studies of the processes responsible for form development (over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales). During the twentieth century significant improvements in approaches to recognizing and describing glacial landforms have been matched by impressive advances in understanding and modeling ice flow and glacial erosion and deposition processes. At present process models are being tested explicitly in terms of predicting the development of known forms (which also provides new insight into the controls on form development). Evaluations of the implications of deformable beds for process and form development are also being attempted. Finally, we are reassessing long-held beliefs about the significance of glacial action in landform development and sediment production. As we head towards the twenty-first century, glacial geomorphology will advance through the use of three-dimensional numerical models that include ice flow, basal sliding (with explicit consideration of deformable beds), erosion and deposition processes, and underlying material characteristics. These models will be used to address form evolution and test process models, and will include both the temporal and spatial aspects of form development. Space-based landform recognition, as well as the challenges presented by the concerns of global change, will place heightened emphasis on large-scale problems, which will include reexamination of the basic significance of glacial versus nonglacial action in landform development and sediment production.