Glacial vs Fluvial Erosion Rates
Author Information
Author(s): Wilner Joel A., Nordin Bailey J., Getraer Alexander, Gregoire Rowan M., Krishna Mansa, Li Jiawen, Pickell Derek J., Rogers Emma R., McDannell Kalin T., Palucis Marisa C., Keller Brenhin
Primary Institution: Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College
Hypothesis
Are glaciers more effective erosional agents than rivers over geological timescales?
Conclusion
Glacial erosion rates are significantly higher than fluvial erosion rates across various timescales.
Supporting Evidence
- Glacial erosion rates exceed fluvial erosion rates by an order of magnitude.
- The study analyzed erosion rates across various timescales from days to millions of years.
- Findings indicate that the differences in erosion rates cannot be explained by measurement biases.
- Glacial erosion is more pronounced in high-latitude regions.
- Results support the hypothesis that glacial erosion has increased due to Cenozoic cooling.
Takeaway
This study found that glaciers erode land much faster than rivers do, even when looking at long time periods.
Methodology
The study compiled over 400 glacial erosion rate measurements and more than 6000 nonglacial erosion rate measurements from various methods.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from measurement techniques and observational limitations.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables affecting erosion rates, such as local geological conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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