The Origin of Foliation in Glaciers: Evidence from Some Norwegian Examples

Studies of Norwegian glaciers indicate that foliation is frequently derived from sedimentary stratification. Shearing and accompanying recrystallization of the ice is most likely to occur in the planes of the sedimentary layers, particularly where they are steeply dipping and have a longitudinal trend, Foliation not related to pre-existing layering is uncommon. Steeply dipping transverse layers, often referred to as foliation, are believed to be simply the traces of former crevasses.