The role of lateral drag in the dynamics of Ice Stream B, Antarctica

Abstract

The partitioning of resistive force between the bed and sides of Ice Stream B, Antarctica , is obtained for three large areas that have bee n measured using repeat aerial photogrammetry. Problems associated with data errors and local variations in ice strength and velocity are reduced by considering the a really ave raged budget of forces for each photo block. Results indicate that the bed under Ice Stream B must be very weak and unable to provide much res instance. Mechanical l control on this ice stream emanates almost entirely from the lateral margins.