Figure 2: Hypothesis for ice-shelf channel formation by subglacial water conduits. | Nature Communications

Figure 2: Hypothesis for ice-shelf channel formation by subglacial water conduits.

From: Actively evolving subglacial conduits and eskers initiate ice shelf channels at an Antarctic grounding line

Figure 2

(a) Subglacial water conduits widen close to the grounding line due to diminishing closure rate forming an ice-shelf channel seawards. (b) Conduit widening is further amplified by intrusion of warmer ocean water, and (c) sedimentation forms an esker at the conduit’s portal as a consequence of conduit widening and decreasing water outflow speed. Ice flow over the esker causes a ridge to form at the surface, which may be preserved as a relict ridge in the ice shelf. This scenario accords best with our observations.

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