Instruments and Methods

Snow density for measuring surface mass balance using the stake method

Authors: Takahashi, Shuhei; Kameda, Takao

Source: Journal of Glaciology, Volume 53, Number 183, December 2007 , pp. 677-680(4)

Publisher: International Glaciological Society

Key:
Free Content - Free Content
New Content - New Content
Subscribed Content - Subscribed Content
Free Trial Content - Free Trial Content

Abstract:

A measure of snow density is required to estimate water equivalent ice-sheet surface mass balance (SMB) from stake measurements. Previous studies have utilized the snow density at different depths within the snow. By considering the snow densification process in the time interval between stake height measurements, we find that use of the snow density at the base of the stake is more appropriate. We assume the stakes are firmly anchored at the bottom and that Sorge's law holds, i.e. the density-depth profile does not change with time. Applying this method to the data for 36 snow stakes on Dome Fuji, the SMB in 2003 was 36.5 kg m-2 a-1, 27% larger than the previous estimate, which used surface snow density. Correct selection of the snow density for SMB estimations is important, especially for Antarctic inland areas where accumulation is low (e.g. Dome Fuji, Vostok, Dome C and South Pole) and where the snow density near the surface varies markedly.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.3189/002214307784409360

The full text electronic article is available for purchase. You will be able to download the full text electronic article after payment.

$37.32 plus tax      Refund Policy

 

OR

Back to top

Key:
Free Content - Free Content
New Content - New Content
Subscribed Content - Subscribed Content
Free Trial Content - Free Trial Content
Share this item with others: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.
Page Help Click here for Page Help
Shopping cart
Tools
Sign in






Need to register?
Sign up here
Text size: A | A | A | A