Accumulation zone

Alternative definitions (2), class: vernacular (0)
Term: Accumulation zone
Definition: The part of the glacier where accumulation exceeds ablation in magnitude, that is, where the cumulative mass balance relative to the start of the mass-balance year is positive. Unless qualified, for example by giving a date within the year, references to the accumulation zone refer to its extent at the end of the mass-balance year. The extent of the accumulation zone can vary strongly from year to year. The accumulation zone is not the same as the firn area.
Created 2022.03.08
Last Modified 2023.03.27
Contributed by GCW Glossary
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