Question

How would the scientists predict the motion of each of the markers relative to the edges of the valley down which the glacier flows? What pattern would they predict in the markers over time?

Answer 1

Glaciologists use Glen–Nye Flow Law, to predict the movements of glaciers.

Step-by-step explanation:

In some parts of the world, glaciers are an important natural resource. This is so because the nature and behaviour of glaciers are an impact the hydrologic, geologic, and ecological systems of their immediate location.

Due to the above, Glaciologists monitor and try to predict the movement and morphology of glaciers.

One of the techniques used by Glaciologists in the monitoring and prediction of glaciers in the use of markers.

The movement of markers is measured relative to the edges of the valley down which the glacier flows. The movement of the markers are then predicted using the Glen–Nye Flow Law.

The Glen–Nye Flow Law is expressed mathematically as follows:

∑=
`kr^(n)`

∑= shear strain (flow) rate

r = stress

n = a constant between 2–4 (typically 3 for most glaciers) that increases with lower temperature

k = a constant dependent on temperature

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