Bakkekanaler

Bakkekanaler, also known as frost polygons or patterned ground, are a type of patterned ground formed by the forces of freezing and thawing of soil. These formations are typically found in periglacial environments, which are regions where the ground is at or near freezing temperatures for at least part of the year. The process begins with the formation of ice wedges in the ground. As water seeps into cracks in the soil and freezes, it expands, widening the cracks. Over time, repeated freezing and thawing cycles cause these ice wedges to grow and develop.

The characteristic polygonal patterns of bakkekanaler are a result of the repeated expansion and contraction of the soil due to ice formation and melting. In areas with a relatively uniform distribution of moisture, the ice wedges can form a network, creating polygonal outlines on the surface. The size and shape of these polygons can vary depending on factors such as the type of soil, the amount of moisture, and the duration and intensity of the freeze-thaw cycles. Bakkekanaler can be found in various landscapes, including tundra, arctic regions, and high mountain areas. They are an important indicator of permafrost conditions and can influence vegetation patterns and hydrological processes in these environments.