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Analyse the data shown in Figure 7 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Analyse the data shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows the surface velocity of various glaciers, including Thwaites Glacier, Antarctica.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 7 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Pattern of Surface Velocities
Answer
The data indicates a very large variation in surface velocities across the glaciers in the region. Most notable is the Thwaites Glacier, which shows higher velocities, particularly at its grounding line, where ice flows into the sea. This is a significant transition point, evidenced by the necessity for a logarithmic scale in the representation.
Step 2
Comparison of Glaciers
Answer
Glaciers such as Haynes, Pope, Smith, and Kohler exhibit surface velocities nearing 100 meters per year at their grounding lines. However, there is a decrease in speed further inland as the glacial flow slows significantly, averaging just around 2-3 meters per year, indicating a sharp decrease in ice flow as one moves away from the sea.
Step 3
Anomalies and Insights
Answer
An interesting observation is the behavior of the Pine Island Glacier, which is an exception among the others. It displays a high rate of ice flow, pushing over 1000 meters per year in certain areas. This suggests unique geological conditions or structural features that enhance its ice speed, contrasting with the slower velocities observed in other glaciers.
Step 4
Data Manipulation and Visual Analysis
Answer
To further analyze the data, a numerical representation of the velocities could be generated, allowing for better understanding of the spatial distribution of ice flow. For instance, creating a linear representation could assist in visualizing the steep gradient of velocities near the grounding lines of the major glaciers.