Abstract | Wave-induced ice motions measured during the Labrador Ice Margin experiment (LIMEX '89) were interpreted to determine the cause and the frequency of collisions between floes. The LIEX acceleration data were acquired with an optimal resolution near the predominant wave frequency and did not contain information above 0.5 Hz. It was therefore possible to establish the frequency of collision, but not the magnitude if the events. Events were defined by any contact between floes in a wave cycle, and the distribution of times between events indicates that floes are more likely to collide in adjacent wave cycles that if the events were independent. Periods of continuous and intermittent collisions were related to the wave characteristics, and the frequency of events increased with a decrease in air temperature and an increase in local wind speed. Contrary to expectations, there was not a positive relation between collison frequency and wave amplitude. |
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