Glacier Monitoring Assignment Questions
Q1. Review the aerial photo of Grinnell Glacier shown above, showing the areas it covered in 1850, 1937, 1968, and 1993. State in the space below, if you think it is possible for the glacier to completely melt. State why or why not. If you think it is possible, predict WHEN you think Grinnell Glacier will be completely melted and explain how you come up with your estimate. As a group discuss, if you agree or disagree with the different predictions made by your group.
Answer: with regards to the picture above and the text of the article, it is possible to suggest that there is the possibility that the glacier will completely melt. This estimation can be made if to take into consideration the dynamics of melting of the glacier and the results of the computer-based climate predicts and the fact that summer temperatures increase. Additionally, there is no substantial replenishment of the glacier as rains, not snows are the dominant form of precipitations in the National Park.
Scientists have collected data about the glaciers in Glacier National Park. Read the included article, “Retreat of Glaciers in Glacier National Park”.
Q2. According to the article, a glacier is defined as covering at least 25 acres or approximately 100,000 m2. From the graph, determine when Grinnell Glacier will no longer be defined as a glacier.
From the graph it is obvious that the Grinnell Gracier lost 39%in 39 years, or 1% annually. In 2005 it accounted 615,454 m2. It was to lose 500 000 approximately not to be a glacier, or 83% of its territory. Consequently, if it will lose 1% a year it will take it 83 years to decline its surface and not to be called a glacier. This will approximately happen by 2088.
Q3. Using your graph, interpolate the estimated area of Sperry Group in 1865.
The Sperry Glacier loses 0, 84% a year. Between 1966 and 1865 it is 101 year, so it has lost 88% of the territory. In 1966 it accounted 1,339,448 m2, in 1865 - 2518162 m2.
Q4. Salamander (a glacier) broke away from Grinnell Glacier in 1929, forming two separate glaciers. Which do you think is a better means of determining the state of the glaciers in the park. The number of glaciers or the area of the glacial ice? Why? Aerial photo (repeat photography) and estimation of the surface of glaciers from the satellites are two best ways of measuring the state of the glaciers. Sattelite mapping of the territory or aerial photoes that are done over time allow also to count the glaciers on the territory and to be aware of the newly formed ones, formed after the collaple of previously existed.
Q5. What are some other methods for monitoring glaciers. Read the article found at https://www.usgs.gov/centers/norock/science/glacier-monitoring-studies?qt-science_center_objects=1#qt-science_center_objects and describe at least one other method.
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