The Physics of Glaciers

The Physics of Glaciers, Fourth Edition, thoroughly examines the physical principles that shape the behavior and characteristics of glaciers. From mountain glaciers and ice caps to continental ice sheets and ice shelves, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of glaciology - a field where physics, geology, atmospheric science, and mathematics converge. This edition delves into the processes transforming snow into ice, the deformation and structure of ice at the grain scale, mass exchange dynamics, and the complexities of glacial hydrology. Additionally, it provides an in-depth look at glacier flow, integrating discussions on the implications of climate change. Enhancements in this edition include two new chapters covering the interactions between ice sheets and the Earth system, as well as the connections between ice, sea level, and contemporary climate change. Previous content on ice core studies has been refreshed, and topics on the movement of various ice masses have been consolidated into a unified discussion on the flow of ice masses.