Sensitivity and path dependence of mountain permafrost systems

Sarah Verleysdonk, Michael Krautblatter, Richard Dikau

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

This article is an attempt to transfer a classical geomorphological concept - the sensitivity concept by Brunsden and Thornes - onto mountain permafrost systems. Focus is put on the impulses applied on the system and its subsequent response. The system state, the ratio between sensitivity and resistivity, as well as all system components and the external impulses are understood to be variable in space and time. In order to address sensitivity and path dependence in mountain permafrost systems, not only the present system configuration but also their historical development and possible future attractors have to be analysed. Important elements are the system configuration, variable impulses and thresholds, processes and process rates and internal feedbacks. The Zugspitze in the Northern Calcareous Alps at the German/Austrian border is chosen as a test site for the applicability of the sensitivity concept on mountain permafrost systems due to the high quantity of research conducted there and the significant impact of climate change on the periglacial system. Further aspects include the consequences of the Eibsee Bergsturz event in 3700 bp in terms of path dependence and geomorphic response time. With this conceptual approach, we hope (1) to enhance the interlinkage between periglacial geomorphology and other sub-disciplines of geomorphology, (2) to contribute to the strengthening of the conceptual basis of periglacial geomorphology, and, therefore, (3) to strengthen the possibilities for holistic exchange within the cryospheric research community.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)113-135
Number of pages23
JournalGeografiska Annaler, Series A: Physical Geography
Volume93
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Conceptual approach
  • Mountain permafrost
  • Path dependence
  • Periglacial geomorphology
  • Sensitivity

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