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Applied Glaciology
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:01:02
Abstract
The course transmits fundamental knowledge for treating applied glaciological problems. Topics include climate-glacier interactions, glacier ice flow, glacier hydrology, ice avalanches, and lake ice.
Objective
The objectives of the courses are to: - learn about fundamental glaciological processes, including glacier mass balance, ice dynamics, and glacier-related hazards; - apply the above knowledge to some case studies inspired by contract-works performed at ETH's Glaciology section; - generate the own computer code to solve the above case studies, and interpret the results; - understand, both in class and in the field, the practical relevance of glaciology, with a focus on the Swiss applications.
Content
The course will develop along the following outline: - How glaciology became a scientific discipline - Glaciology and hydropower - Glacier mechanics and ice flow - Gravitational glacier instabilities - Glacier hydrology and glacier lake outbursts - Lake ice and ice bearing capacity - Field excursion to Jungfraujoch - Discussion of the exercises performed during the semester
Resources
Lecture Notes
Digital lecture handouts will be distributed prior to each class.
Literature
Links to relevant literature will be provided during the classes.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Applied Glaciology |
|
2 h weekly |