Identification of geomorphic process units in Kärkevagge, northern Sweden, by remote sensing and digital terrain analysis

Sediment transport processes in the Kärkevagge are investigated concerning their spatial and temporal characteristics due to long–term monitoring. Within this study remote sensing techniques and GIS modelling in connection with geomorphic mapping are applied for identification and characterization of geomorphic process units. Relationships between geomorphometric parameters and slope processes like solifluction, talus creep and rockfall have been analysed. Multitemporal Landsat–TM5 scenes are used as source for landcover characteristics (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) after preprocessing involving orthorectification and topographic normalization in order to remove possible terrain–induced effects. Additionally, a digital elevation model with a resolution of 20 m for the Kärkevagge catchment is developed and parameters like slope gradient, slope aspect and profile curvature are extracted as input for the analysis of the sediment transport system. The combination of landcover information, geomorphometrical and topological features allows the definition of areas for single process activities. They show specific sediment displacement characteristics depending on material conditions, topological and geometrical features. Geomorphic process units, which show a homogenous composition, are extracted from these available layers.     

QUANTIFYING SEDIMENT TRANSPORT PROCESSES IN PERIGLACIAL MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENTS AT A CATCHMENT SCALE USING GEOMORPHIC PROCESS UNITS

The research record on the quantification of sediment transport processes in periglacial mountain environments in Scandinavia dates back to the 1950s. A wide range of measurements is available, especially from the Kärkevagge region of northern Sweden. Within this paper satellite image analysis and tools provided by geographic information systems (GIS) are exploited in order to extend and improve this research and to complement geophysical methods. The processes of interest include mass movements such as solifluction, slope wash, dirty avalanches and rock- and boulder falls. Geomorphic process units have been derived in order to allow quantification via GIS techniques at a catchment scale. Mass movement rates based on existing field measurements are employed in the budget calculations. In the Kärkevagge catchment, 80% of the area can be identified either as a source area for sediments or as a zone where sediments are deposited. The overall budget for the slopes beneath the rockwalls in the Kärkevagge is approximately 680 t a⁻¹ whilst about 150 t a⁻¹ are transported into the fluvial system.     

Towards an integration of process measurements, archive analysis and modelling in geomorphology — the Kärkevagge experimental site, Abisko area, northern Sweden

The analysis of Holocene geomorphic process activity demands long–term data sets, which are available for the Kärkevagge catchment due to 50 years of intensive geomorphologic field studies. This data set is used in combination with additional field measurements, remote sensing and digital elevation model (DEM) analysis to provide input data for modelling Holocene valley development. On the basis of this information, geomorphic process units (GPUs) are defined by means of GIS modelling. These units represent areas of homogeneous process composition that transfer sediments. Since the data base enables the quantification of single processes, the interaction of processes within the units can also be quantified. Applying this concept permits calculation of recent sediment transfer rates and hence leads to a better understanding of actual geomorphic landscape development activity. To extrapolate these data in time and space the process–related sediments in the valley are analysed for depth and total volume, primarily using geophysical methods. In this fashion the validity of measured process rates is evaluated for the Holocene time scale. Results from this analysis are exemplified in a cross–profile showing some of the principal sediment units in the valley. For example, the measured modern rates on a slush torrent debris fan seem to represent the Holocene mean rate. This approach should also be suitable for revealing Holocene geomorphic landscape development in terms of climate change.     

Towards an integration of process measurements, archive analysis and modelling in geomorphology — the Kärkevagge experimental site, Abisko area, northern Sweden

The analysis of Holocene geomorphic process activity demands long–term data sets, which are available for the Kärkevagge catchment due to 50 years of intensive geomorphologic field studies. This data set is used in combination with additional field measurements, remote sensing and digital elevation model (DEM) analysis to provide input data for modelling Holocene valley development. On the basis of this information, geomorphic process units (GPUs) are defined by means of GIS modelling. These units represent areas of homogeneous process composition that transfer sediments. Since the data base enables the quantification of single processes, the interaction of processes within the units can also be quantified. Applying this concept permits calculation of recent sediment transfer rates and hence leads to a better understanding of actual geomorphic landscape development activity. To extrapolate these data in time and space the process–related sediments in the valley are analysed for depth and total volume, primarily using geophysical methods. In this fashion the validity of measured process rates is evaluated for the Holocene time scale. Results from this analysis are exemplified in a cross–profile showing some of the principal sediment units in the valley. For example, the measured modern rates on a slush torrent debris fan seem to represent the Holocene mean rate. This approach should also be suitable for revealing Holocene geomorphic landscape development in terms of climate change.     

Chemical denudation rates in Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

This study examines the spatial and temporal variability of chemical denudation rates in Kärkevagge, northern Sweden. The chemical flux rates within the valley are strongly influenced by the local geology. Chemical denudation rates determined for the study period are more than double those previously reported in the literature for this valley. Rates of greater than 46t km⁻² a⁻¹ were measured at the valley mouth over the course of the melt season. This difference is likely due to differences in measurement technique compared to that used by past researchers. This rate is also much higher than for other arctic and alpine watersheds. Chemical denudation in Kärkevagge is comparable to larger temperate rivers. The rapid chemical denudation in Kärkevagge is likely due to sulfide weathering creating acid solutions.     

Chemical denudation rates in Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

This study examines the spatial and temporal variability of chemical denudation rates in Kärkevagge, northern Sweden. The chemical flux rates within the valley are strongly influenced by the local geology. Chemical denudation rates determined for the study period are more than double those previously reported in the literature for this valley. Rates of greater than 46t km⁻² a⁻¹ were measured at the valley mouth over the course of the melt season. This difference is likely due to differences in measurement technique compared to that used by past researchers. This rate is also much higher than for other arctic and alpine watersheds. Chemical denudation in Kärkevagge is comparable to larger temperate rivers. The rapid chemical denudation in Kärkevagge is likely due to sulfide weathering creating acid solutions.     

Near–surface ground temperature regime variability in selected microenvironments, Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

The importance of topographic microvariability in influencing shallow (10–50 cm depths) soil temperature regimes in arctic–alpine Kärkevagge, northern Sweden, from August 1999 to July 2000 is demonstrated using six sites. The ground microclimate on the tops of very large boulders forming an extensive boulder field in the central valley bottom is more comparable to that at an alpine ridge–crest site 300 m higher than it is to the microclimate at the base of one of the boulders. The boulder crests also differ substantially from the more generalized valley–bottom conditions outside the boulder field. Assuming that chemical processes may be active at temperatures at or above 0°C, sites in the valley experience favorable conditions from 159 to 324 days of the year. Aside from the annual cycle, freeze–thaw cycles are infrequent within Kärkevagge.     

Near–surface ground temperature regime variability in selected microenvironments, Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

The importance of topographic microvariability in influencing shallow (10–50 cm depths) soil temperature regimes in arctic–alpine Kärkevagge, northern Sweden, from August 1999 to July 2000 is demonstrated using six sites. The ground microclimate on the tops of very large boulders forming an extensive boulder field in the central valley bottom is more comparable to that at an alpine ridge–crest site 300 m higher than it is to the microclimate at the base of one of the boulders. The boulder crests also differ substantially from the more generalized valley–bottom conditions outside the boulder field. Assuming that chemical processes may be active at temperatures at or above 0°C, sites in the valley experience favorable conditions from 159 to 324 days of the year. Aside from the annual cycle, freeze–thaw cycles are infrequent within Kärkevagge.     

Rock slope failure and landscape evolution in the Caledonian Mountains, as exemplified in the Abisko area, northern Sweden

Paraglacial rock slope failure (RSF) is here studied as a locally major contributor to mountain landscape evolution in the Caledonian ranges. Dense RSF clusters exist in Scotland and Norway, but overall RSF distribution in Scandinavia is poorly known. In the Abisko area, air photo scrutiny confirms the reported incidence of sparse but significant RSF. In the Kärkevagge complex, the Rissa RSF is one of the largest in northern Europe, with a scar volume of 42 Mm3. The well–known Giant Boulder Deposit (GBD) is a rock avalanche emanating from the Rissa RSF scar, the interpretation of wholesale valley wall retreat at deglaciation being discounted. In the adjacent valley of Vassivagge, a major RSF on Vuoitasrita has a similar area and morpholocation, but lacks a GBD. It has consumed 5–10% of the relict preglacial mountain surface. Both RSFs are near incipient watershed breaches in valleys which may have undergone vigorous enlargement during the last stadial. Glaciation history may explain spatial incidence as well as neotectonic and other triggers. The localised geomorphic impact of RSF in the Abisko mountains is high by comparison with contemporary slope processes. The cumulative impact of paraglacial RSF over the Quaternary may have been considerable, and RSF may be an indicator of concentrated late–stage glacial erosion.     

Rock slope failure and landscape evolution in the Caledonian Mountains, as exemplified in the Abisko area, northern Sweden

Paraglacial rock slope failure (RSF) is here studied as a locally major contributor to mountain landscape evolution in the Caledonian ranges. Dense RSF clusters exist in Scotland and Norway, but overall RSF distribution in Scandinavia is poorly known. In the Abisko area, air photo scrutiny confirms the reported incidence of sparse but significant RSF. In the Kärkevagge complex, the Rissa RSF is one of the largest in northern Europe, with a scar volume of 42 Mm3. The well–known Giant Boulder Deposit (GBD) is a rock avalanche emanating from the Rissa RSF scar, the interpretation of wholesale valley wall retreat at deglaciation being discounted. In the adjacent valley of Vassivagge, a major RSF on Vuoitasrita has a similar area and morpholocation, but lacks a GBD. It has consumed 5–10% of the relict preglacial mountain surface. Both RSFs are near incipient watershed breaches in valleys which may have undergone vigorous enlargement during the last stadial. Glaciation history may explain spatial incidence as well as neotectonic and other triggers. The localised geomorphic impact of RSF in the Abisko mountains is high by comparison with contemporary slope processes. The cumulative impact of paraglacial RSF over the Quaternary may have been considerable, and RSF may be an indicator of concentrated late–stage glacial erosion.     

DIFFERENTIAL ROCK WEATHERING IN THE 'VALLEY OF THE BOULDERS', KÄRKEVAGGE, SWEDISH LAPLAND

Kärkevagge is an alpine valley in the low arctic of Swedish Lapland. It is named after, and famous for, its large deposit of immense (c. 10–15 m) boulders that almost fill the lower valley. Above the boulder deposit, on the flanks of the valley, are more recent and generally much smaller (c. 1–3 m) individual boulders that have fallen from the valley-wall cliff face, presumably from post-glacial valley-side unloading. Some of these smaller boulders are seemingly fresh and unweathered while others have been reduced to no more than mounds in the tundra. These boulders must be younger than the larger, lower giant boulder deposit, but are not particularly recent rockfalls as they are partially buried in colluvium. Comparisons of mineralogy and chemistry indicate that the possibility exists that the incompetent, 'rotten' rocks, if not considerably older than their competent neighbors, are inherently self-destructive. They have evidence of increased sulfur content, which is a proxy for pyrite, a known weathering accelerant in Kärkevagge.     

56 YEARS OF SOLIFLUCTION MEASUREMENTS IN THE ABISKO MOUNTAINS, NORTHERN SWEDEN – ANALYSIS OF TEMPORAL AND SPATIAL VARIATIONS OF SLOW SOIL SURFACE MOVEMENT

Solifluction movement rates from 1952 to 2008 for the Abisko region, northern Sweden, have been compiled and analysed through correlation tests and multiple regression. The temporal analysis is based on two datasets ( Lobe11 & gridAB and Line B ) from Kärkevagge. The dataset Lobe11 & gridAB show a strong correlation between movement rates and mean annual air temperature (MAAT) and MAAT is also identified as one of the significant contributing parameters in the multiple regression model. No significant correlations were found for the Line B dataset. The spatial analysis indicates generally higher movement rates in the western part of the region and at lower altitudes mainly between 700 and 900 m a.s.l., but the spatial variability is high. To reduce the influence of the temporal variation the data for the correlation tests of the spatial variations were divided into two parts: 1957 to 1980 and 1981 to 2008. The correlation analysis of the dataset 1957 to 1980 shows a significant negative correlation between annual average movement rates and permafrost probability and altitude. The dataset 1981 to 2008 shows a positive correlation between movement rates and wetness index. It is concluded that movement rates may increase with higher MAAT in the western part of the region (Kärkevagge), the spatial variability of movement rates within the region is very high and that altitude (and/or permafrost) together with wetness index are the main controls on the regional spatial variation. The study highlights the limitations in establishing statistical relationships between movement rates and climate using data from different field empirical studies.     

Enigmatic Efflorescence in Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland: The Key to Chemical Weathering?

The second marvel to catch the eye of the visitor to Kärkevagge, after the impressive boulder deposit on the floor of the valley, is the series of prominent white stripes running down the valley's dark cliffs. Streams and springs descending the eastern flank of Kärkevagge are marked by the presence of whitish coatings on the black rock surfaces and on cobbles lining ephemeral waterways. These were referred to as 'lime crusts' by early investigators, but they are not reactive to HCl. We believe that they are a precipitate resulting from acid attack on the local rocks. Pyrite is common in many of the rocks in the valley and its oxidation produces sulfuric acid. As the dissolved mineral elements are carried in the drainage water, efflorescence forms on the surfaces where the water flows due to evaporation or to changes in temperature. The exact mineralogy of the white crusts is unknown, but the crusts are dominated by Al, S, and O, and in some cases by Ca, depending on the substrate and local conditions. Gypsum, illite, and chlorite have been identified by X–ray diffraction of some scrapings of white–coated rocks. However, we believe that some unidentified oxy–hydroxy aluminum sulfates make up the bulk of the precipitates.     

Enigmatic Efflorescence in Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland: The Key to Chemical Weathering?

The second marvel to catch the eye of the visitor to Kärkevagge, after the impressive boulder deposit on the floor of the valley, is the series of prominent white stripes running down the valley's dark cliffs. Streams and springs descending the eastern flank of Kärkevagge are marked by the presence of whitish coatings on the black rock surfaces and on cobbles lining ephemeral waterways. These were referred to as 'lime crusts' by early investigators, but they are not reactive to HCl. We believe that they are a precipitate resulting from acid attack on the local rocks. Pyrite is common in many of the rocks in the valley and its oxidation produces sulfuric acid. As the dissolved mineral elements are carried in the drainage water, efflorescence forms on the surfaces where the water flows due to evaporation or to changes in temperature. The exact mineralogy of the white crusts is unknown, but the crusts are dominated by Al, S, and O, and in some cases by Ca, depending on the substrate and local conditions. Gypsum, illite, and chlorite have been identified by X–ray diffraction of some scrapings of white–coated rocks. However, we believe that some unidentified oxy–hydroxy aluminum sulfates make up the bulk of the precipitates.     

The hydrogeochemistry of the Kärkevagge Valley, Lapland, Sweden

The Kärkejokk (jokk = Lappish for brook) is rich in sulfate and calcium, both elements having been considered enigmatic. To resolve these problems we collected waters at 13 sites during 27 June to 1 September 1996. Nine sites were in the Kärkevagge, and the others in the drainage towards lake Torne Träsk. Rain waters were collected the same period. Conductivity, pH, and temperature were measured in the field, whereas salt load and the elements Na, K, Ca, Mg, S, Si, Fe, Al, Mn, Zn, Sr, and Ba were determined in the laboratory.
Mixing models based on rain water and leaching products of the major bedrocks do not explain observed element patterns except in the lower parts of the jokk. However, oxidation of pyrite has formed acid, sulfate–rich solutions that released Ca and Mg from limestones, and Fe, Mn, Al, and Si, from black shales (Malmsten 1998; Malmsten et al. 2000). Conservative mixing models, using rain water, leached bedrock and pyrite, match the jokk waters quite well, and sulfur isotope data corroborate these findings. The nearby Låktajokk, and Vassijokk also contain much S.
Where these waters debouch they may deposit Si, Al, and Ca, but only little S on various rocks. Total rock analyses, thermodynamic and X–ray data suggest that gypsum, barite, or alunite are not formed in major quantities.
These models show that the hydrogeochemistry of the Kärkejokk may be less enigmatic than often assumed.     

Geomorphic characterization and diversity of the fluvial systems of the Gangetic Plains

The extensive Gangetic alluvial plains are drained by rivers which differ strongly in terms of hydrological and sediment transport characteristics. These differences are manifested in the geomorphic diversity of the plains. The Western Gangetic Plains (WGP) are marked by a degradational topography with incised channels and extensive badland development in some parts, while the Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP) are characterized by shallow, aggrading channels with frequent avulsions and extensive flooding. We interpret such geomorphic diversity in terms of differences in stream power and sediment supply from the catchment areas. The rivers draining the western plains are marked by higher stream power and lower sediment yield that result in degradation. In comparison, the rivers draining the eastern Gangetic Plains have lower stream power and higher sediment yield that result in aggradation. The variation of stream power, a function of channel slope and high sediment yield, is attributed to differences in rainfall and rate of uplift in the hinterland. It is suggested that such differences have resulted in a marked geomorphic diversity across the plains. It is also suggested that such diversity has existed for a fairly long time because of climatic and tectonic variance.     

The hydrogeochemistry of the Kärkevagge Valley, Lapland, Sweden

The Kärkejokk (jokk = Lappish for brook) is rich in sulfate and calcium, both elements having been considered enigmatic. To resolve these problems we collected waters at 13 sites during 27 June to 1 September 1996. Nine sites were in the Kärkevagge, and the others in the drainage towards lake Torne Träsk. Rain waters were collected the same period. Conductivity, pH, and temperature were measured in the field, whereas salt load and the elements Na, K, Ca, Mg, S, Si, Fe, Al, Mn, Zn, Sr, and Ba were determined in the laboratory.
Mixing models based on rain water and leaching products of the major bedrocks do not explain observed element patterns except in the lower parts of the jokk. However, oxidation of pyrite has formed acid, sulfate–rich solutions that released Ca and Mg from limestones, and Fe, Mn, Al, and Si, from black shales (Malmsten 1998; Malmsten et al. 2000). Conservative mixing models, using rain water, leached bedrock and pyrite, match the jokk waters quite well, and sulfur isotope data corroborate these findings. The nearby Låktajokk, and Vassijokk also contain much S.
Where these waters debouch they may deposit Si, Al, and Ca, but only little S on various rocks. Total rock analyses, thermodynamic and X–ray data suggest that gypsum, barite, or alunite are not formed in major quantities.
These models show that the hydrogeochemistry of the Kärkejokk may be less enigmatic than often assumed.     

Spatial variation of early season surface water chemistry in Kärkevagge, Swedish Lapland

This study examines the spatial variability of early season water chemistry in the arctic-alpine valley of Kärkevagge, Sweden. The data demonstrate the spatially heterogeneous nature of water chemistry and the general patterns of chemical weathering in the valley. Water chemistry in this valley is dominated by two anions, bicarbonate and sulfate. Bicarbonate is derived from the dissolution of atmospheric CO₂ and the weathering of carbonate units in the local metamorphic rocks, while the sulfate is derived from the oxidation of pyrite in the Seve-Koli tectonic nappe. Spatial patterns of chemical constituents reflect the broad effects of local geology on surface water chemistry. In particular, they demonstrate the effects that mineral species present in minor amounts have on basin-wide water chemistry. However, solute flux rates derived from water chemistry and discharge demonstrate less variability.     

坡面非均匀沙输移机理实验方法

在分析坡面泥沙输移现象的基础上,以室内沙堆模型实验量化其输沙特征,得出其在空间上具有自相似分形的动力学过程,从理论上应用水动力学弥散特性进一步证实,结果符合较好。     

Responses of Riverbed Particles to Geomorphologic Processes in Aeolian-Fluvial Action Area: A Case Study of the Heilaigou Basin in Inner Mongolia of China

The Heilaigou basin, located in the Inner Mongolia of China, is predominantly influenced by the aeolian-fluvial actions, with complicated sediment transport conditions on the mainstream riverbed. In order to identify the relationship between sedimentary particles and geomorphic processes, mechanisms for the formation of characteristics of grain size composition were investigated by analyzing grain size parameters and external dynamic geomorphologic features. Firstly, the grain size parameters of the riverbed, stream power, maximum grain size of the wind-blown particles and HI values of the mainstream channel were calculated and analyzed, and they were used to establish multiple regression functions of grain size parameters in order to determine the effects of wind and river actions on particles. The results show that sediments in different reaches are formed in different environments: the upper stream is controlled by fluvial and aeolian processes; the sorting properties of riverbed sediments in the middle stream are worse than those in the upper stream since they are affected mainly by fluvial processes as indicated by the larger stream power there; and the particles on the downstream riverbed are likely contributed by the Kubuqi Desert. The size of particles on the riverbed depends on the hydrodynamic conditions, but is not significantly associated with the evolution of landform. Sorting is significantly related to both the hydrodynamic conditions and wind actions. Riverbed deposits brought in by winds likely become finer from the lower to the upper reaches, which are not coarser than 0.88f. Generally speaking, the stream power has a major effect on sedimentation characteristics of the riverbed, followed by wind power.