Melting-driven evolution of an ice-shelf base coupled to a meltwater plume

Recent observations and models suggest that melting at the base of floating ice shelves can significantly impact ice sheet flow, with consequences for sea level rise. The buoyancy-driven flow of meltwater under an ice shelf is strongly coupled to ice-shelf geometry, with flow being stronger under steeper slopes, and stronger flow producing enhanced heat fluxes that drive melting. To provide initial insight into the potential for melt-driven instability of an ice shelf base, I consider a theoretical model of the melting of a two-dimensional stationary ice-shelf above a warmer glacial ocean. Melting rates are controlled by a turbulent buoyancy-driven plume of meltwater that is coupled to an ice-water free boundary that evolves as a result of melting. The evolving slope of the ice-shelf base provides a feedback on heat transfer from the meltwater plume, with potential consequences for the stability of ice shelves.