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The configuration of Northern Hemisphere ice sheets through the Quaternary

Author

Listed:
  • Christine L. Batchelor

    (University of Cambridge, Scott Polar Research Institute
    Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))

  • Martin Margold

    (Charles University)

  • Mario Krapp

    (University of Cambridge)

  • Della K. Murton

    (University of Cambridge)

  • April S. Dalton

    (Durham University)

  • Philip L. Gibbard

    (University of Cambridge, Scott Polar Research Institute)

  • Chris R. Stokes

    (Durham University)

  • Julian B. Murton

    (University of Sussex)

  • Andrea Manica

    (University of Cambridge)

Abstract

Our understanding of how global climatic changes are translated into ice-sheet fluctuations and sea-level change is currently limited by a lack of knowledge of the configuration of ice sheets prior to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Here, we compile a synthesis of empirical data and numerical modelling results related to pre-LGM ice sheets to produce new hypotheses regarding their extent in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) at 17 time-slices that span the Quaternary. Our reconstructions illustrate pronounced ice-sheet asymmetry within the last glacial cycle and significant variations in ice-marginal positions between older glacial cycles. We find support for a significant reduction in the extent of the Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) during MIS 3, implying that global sea levels may have been 30–40 m higher than most previous estimates. Our ice-sheet reconstructions illustrate the current state-of-the-art knowledge of pre-LGM ice sheets and provide a conceptual framework to interpret NH landscape evolution.

Suggested Citation

  • Christine L. Batchelor & Martin Margold & Mario Krapp & Della K. Murton & April S. Dalton & Philip L. Gibbard & Chris R. Stokes & Julian B. Murton & Andrea Manica, 2019. "The configuration of Northern Hemisphere ice sheets through the Quaternary," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 10(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:10:y:2019:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-019-11601-2
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11601-2
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