Differential frost heave, load casting and convection: Converging mechanisms; a discussion of the origin of cryoturbations

This paper reviews and discusses the main mechanisms involved in cryoturbation processes and patterned ground. The arguments are based upon field, thermal, moisture and micromorphological data in relation to cryogenic fabric stability and local hydraulic conditions. Differential frost heaving appears to be the main mechanism of cryoturbation, but its action can be helped by cryostatic pressures, by differential swelling and probably also by load casting in poorly drained sites. Differential frost heaving can be emphasized if organics are present. Frost‐susceptibility gradients provide an understanding of the geometry of deformations.