A two-dimensional finite-element study of flow in the transition zone between an ice sheet and an ice shelf

A numerical study has been carried out on the flow of ice in the transition zone between an ice sheet and an ice shelf. The study was motivated by the need for global ice-sheet-ice-shelf modelling to determine the characteristics of the transition zone. The problem is dealt with from an academic viewpoint, and the study especially focuses on two-dimensional vertical sharp transition zones. Stokes equations are solved using a finite-element method. Conclusions include: (1) in ice-sheet-ice-shelf modelling, each of the two components can be computed separately then linked by a jump-boundary condition [or the horizontal velocity; (2) as shown by studies on the response of an ice shelf to tidal forcing, the surface elevation/thickness ratio passes through the hydrostatic equilibrium value.