Brine in ihe McMurdo ice shelf, Antarctica

Abstract

In 1959 brine-soaked firn was discovered in the McMurdo Ice Shelf. Since then, as part of a comprehensive glaciological programme, 13 holes have been drilled and have confirmed the presence of extensive brine infiltration along the western area of the Ice Shelf, up to 20 km from the ice edge of McMurdo Sound. Results illustrating the relationship of density to depth and to salinity are given and the methods of infiltration of brine to form brine-soaked firn are discussed. From this, a theoretical model of the Ice Shelf showing the distribution and extent of brine-soaked firn that may be expected has been postulated. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.