Use of the schmidt test hammer to detect enhanced boulder weathering under late‐lying snowpatches

Abstract

AbstractBallantyne et al. (1989) presented data that show a significant reduction in Schmidt hammer rebound values for boulders buried by late‐lying snow. McCarroll (1990) questions these findings on the grounds of sampling design, methodology and unexpectedly rapid weathering of boulders at one recently‐deglaciated site. However, analysis of the data using the procedure recommended by McCarroll yields identical results, and his methodological objections appear groundless. The absence of evidence for reduction of rebound values at snowpatch sites investigated by McCarroll may reflect lack of meltwater runoff beneath snowbeds in permafrost areas. The implied rapidity of weathering on recently‐deglaciated ground requires further investigation.