Antarctic iceberg distribution and dissolution from ship-based observations

Authors: Jacka, Tim H.; Giles, A. Barry

Source: Journal of Glaciology, Volume 53, Number 182, July 2007 , pp. 341-356(16)

Publisher: International Glaciological Society

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Abstract:

The Australian Antarctic Program's iceberg dataset (from ship-based observations), including information from the austral summer seasons 1984/85 to 1999/2000, is examined and used to extend earlier studies. Using 'snapshots' of the iceberg population to provide an idea of the iceberg life cycle, the distribution of icebergs between 60 and 150° E is discussed in terms of calving regions and ocean currents. Temporal changes are also examined. The discussion leads us to the point where we can define an area, bounded to the north by the maximum sea-ice limit and to the south by the Antarctic Divergence, in which icebergs are confined as they drift eastward. This allows estimation of total dissolution, in terms of iceberg numbers and volume, within 10° longitudinal sectors and, with knowledge of drift speeds, iceberg movement rates and freshwater input across the sector. Iceberg dissolution rates are found to be ∼0.03-0.05 m d⁻¹ and the total mass contribution of fresh water to the ocean as the icebergs traverse our 30° of longitude study sector is ∼32 Gt. This amounts to a contribution equivalent to precipitation of ∼15.5 cm a⁻¹, accounting for ∼2% of the total iceberg discharge from the Antarctic ice sheet.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3189/002214307783258521

Publication date: 2007-07-01

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The Journal of Glaciology is published six times per year. It accepts submissions from any discipline related to the study of snow and ice. All articles are peer reviewed. The Journal is included in the ISI Science Citation Index.
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