Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Geography & Environmental Studies

Faculty/School

Faculty of Arts

First Advisor

Michael English

Advisor Role

Thesis Committee Member

Second Advisor

Jerry Hall

Advisor Role

Thesis Committee Member

Third Advisor

E. Mattson

Advisor Role

Thesis Committee Member

Abstract

The 1991 iceberg season on the Grand Banks was the second most severe on record. Over a 218-day period, a total of 2002 icebergs traversed latitude 48°N. Percentages of sightings involving medium and large icebergs greatly exceeded normal values. Thus, the season was mxtstanding, not only in terms of flux numbers, but in terms of total ice mass delivered. Assuming that this flux anomaly is the product of more efficient advection and less efficient ablation and notzsome sudden surge in upstream berg production, the study investigates various atmospheric and sea surface conditions as contributing factors to a near record iceberg year. Factors promoting more efficient advection include a strong and persistent norfihwesterly wind component which augmented current-forcing. Factors Dromoting reduced efficiency of ablation include persistence of below average water and air temperatures and an extended period of influence of wave-damping sea ice.

Convocation Year

1993

Convocation Season

Spring

Download

Share

COinS