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Laser-Induced Fluorescence Emission (L.I.F.E.) as Novel Non-Invasive Tool for In-Situ Measurements of Biomarkers in Cryospheric Habitats
Published on: October 26, 2019
Accelerating changes in ice mass within Greenland, and the ice sheet's sensitivity to atmospheric forcing
Michael Bevis1, Christopher Harig2, Shfaqat A Khan3
1School of Earth Sciences, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; mbevis@osu.edu.
Summary
Greenland ice mass loss accelerated until 2013, then abruptly slowed. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) influenced these changes, suggesting southwest Greenland will significantly contribute to future sea level rise.
Area of Science:
- * Glaciology and Climate Science
- * Cryospheric Research
Background:
- * Greenland ice sheet experienced accelerating mass loss from 2003 to 2013.
- * An abrupt reversal in ice loss trends was observed around mid-2013.
- * Previous studies indicated significant ice loss, but the abrupt deceleration was notable.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate the drivers and spatial patterns of Greenland's ice mass changes.
- * To analyze the influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) on ice loss acceleration and deceleration.
- * To project future contributions of Greenland ice to sea level rise.
Main Methods:
- * Analysis of Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and global positioning system (GPS) data.
- * Utilizing the regional climate model MAR to simulate surface mass balance (SMB).
- * Correlating ice mass changes with the phases of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO).
Main Results:
- * Ice mass loss in Greenland showed a progressively increasing rate until mid-2013.
- * A significant and abrupt deceleration in ice loss occurred in the subsequent 12-18 months.
- * The spatial patterns of acceleration and deceleration were linked to NAO phases, particularly impacting west Greenland's SMB.
Conclusions:
- * The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is a key driver of Greenland ice mass variability.
- * Southwest Greenland is identified as a region likely to become a major contributor to future sea level rise.
- * Understanding NAO's influence is crucial for predicting future ice sheet behavior and sea level changes.
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