Basal lubrication (Q325)
Subject, term, tag: Basal lubrication
| Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | Basal lubrication |
Subject, term, tag: Basal lubrication |
Statements
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026
Reduction of friction at the base of an ice sheet or glacier due to lubrication by meltwater. This can allow the glacier or ice sheet to slide over its base. Meltwater may be produced by pressure-induced melting, friction or geothermal heat, or surface melt may drain to the base through holes in the ice. (English)
IPCC Glossary v1.5
1 reference
27 May 2026