Thermal resistance of snow cover and its effect on the ground freezing

Abstract

Spatial and temporal variability of snow thermal resistance in some areas of Krasnoyarsk region and Yakutia has been studied. Soil freezing depth has been correlated with snow cover depth and its thermal resistance. Mathematical modeling has been applied to assess the influence of snow cover and soil parameters on depth of frost penetration. The critical thickness of snow cover that controls the development of seasonally frozen layer disconnected from underlying permafrost was found. Capabilities and efficiency of controlling the thermal resistance of snow cover required to reduce the adverse effects of climate warming on permafrost degradation have been discussed.

Keywords

• критическая толщина снежного покрова
• промерзание грунта
• термическое сопротивление