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Theoretical Analysis of the Formation of Glacial Flutes

1976; Cambridge University Press; Volume: 17; Issue: 76 Linguagem: Inglês

10.3189/s002214300060000x

1727-5652

Ε. M. Morris, L. W. Morland,

Aeolian processes and effects

Abstract In an analysis of the formation of flutes by subglacial cavities the flute-forming sediment is treated as a linear isotropic elastic material prior to failure, which occurs when Coulomb's law is satisfied. The maximum height of a flute is derived as a function of the mechanical properties of its material and the factors controlling the variation of height with distance along the flute are analysed. The flow pattern of material during the formation of a flute which the theory suggests is similar to the patterns which have been determined in a till fabric analysis of flutes near Breiðamcrkurjökull, Iceland.