GLACIER CHARACTERISTICS

A. Introduction

classification based on morphology

surficial features

B. Glacier Classification

Glaciers unconstrained by topography

underlying morphology has only slight impact on glacier shape or flow

flow is downward and outward from one or more central domes

examples

ice sheets

ice caps

Iimage credit: NASA Blue Marble
Iceland image: Vatnajokull, Iceland GSFC/NASA

ice streams

Image credit: NASA/GSFC

Ice Shelves

Image credit: NOAA
Image credit: NASA/JPL

Glaciers constrained by topography

underlying morphology directly impacts glacier shape and flow

flow is downhill

examples

ice fields and outlet glaciers

Image credit: USGS
Image credit: USGS

piedmont glaciers
Image credit: USGS

valley/alpine glaciers and cirque glaciers

Image credit: photo credit: S. Hillebrand, US FWS
Image credit: Molnia/USGS Glossary of Glacial Terminology

C. Surface Features

Sastrugi

Crevasses

longitudinal

transverse

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Ice falls & ogives

Image: L. Freeman. Used with permission.
Image credit: B. Molnia. USGS

Moulins

Image credit: GSFC/NASA

Rivers & lakes