Helge Hellevang , Mats R. Ippach , Sebastian Westermann , Mohammad Nooraiepour
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The recent discovery of eight gas escape craters (GECs) in Western Siberia has challenged researchers for the past decade. The GECs have only been observed in this limited region. Several models have been proposed with the commonality that they formed from permafrost-internal processes triggered by external forcing. Numerical modeling, however, suggests that the estimated volume of ejecta may not be in agreement with gas-filled cavities of limited size. Furthermore, a rigorous analysis of attainable pressures by permafrost-internal processes has not been done. This study critically reviews the existing models and concludes that focused deep heat and gas from below the permafrost may be the key factor allowing the formation of GECs, while atmospheric heating indirectly triggers their formation by accelerating cryogenic process rates and the formation of new lakes and rivers. GECs appear to be associated with faulting in the area and form where sub-lake or sub-river talik structures meet local thinning of the permafrost.
期刊介绍:
The Science of the Total Environment is an international journal dedicated to scientific research on the environment and its interaction with humanity. It covers a wide range of disciplines and seeks to publish innovative, hypothesis-driven, and impactful research that explores the entire environment, including the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and anthroposphere.
The journal's updated Aims & Scope emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary environmental research with broad impact. Priority is given to studies that advance fundamental understanding and explore the interconnectedness of multiple environmental spheres. Field studies are preferred, while laboratory experiments must demonstrate significant methodological advancements or mechanistic insights with direct relevance to the environment.