Item: The Microstructual Effects of Kinetic Growth Metamorphism in a Layered Snow Structure
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Title: The Microstructual Effects of Kinetic Growth Metamorphism in a Layered Snow Structure
Proceedings: Proceedings of the 2006 International Snow Science Workshop, Telluride, Colorado
Authors:
- Ethan M. Greene [ Colorado State University, Department of Geosciences, Fort Collins, Colorado, U.S.A ] [ USDA-Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, Colorado, U.S.A ]
- Martin Schneebeli [ WSL Swiss Federal Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research – SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
- Kelly Elder [ USDA-Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, Colorado, U.S.A ]
Date: 2006
Abstract: Faceted snow near a hard crust often poses a dangerous problem for avalanche forecasters. producing a persistent weakness where the avalanches are difficult to predict and the avalanche cycle lasts for months rather than days or weeks. We conducted a series of laboratory experiments designed to investigate the structure of faceted snow near an ice crust. We created an artificial ice layer between two samples of natural snow. Then we subjected the samples to a large temperature gradient for five days. Serial sectioning and three-dimensional reconstruction of the samples showed drastic changes in bonding above and below the ice layer. The results of this study may help to explain patterns in avalanche activity that have been observed in the field and have implications for local and regional avalanche forecasting.
Language of Article: English
Presenters: Unknown
Keywords: snow microstructure, kinetic growth metamorphism, facets near crusts
Page Number(s): 22-26
Subjects: snow metamorphism near surface facets snow microstructure
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Digital Abstract Not Available
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