jäätõmbumine

Jäätõmbumine, also known as ice heave, is a phenomenon that occurs in cold climates when water saturates soil and then freezes. As the water freezes, it expands, exerting pressure on the surrounding soil. This expansion can cause the ground surface to lift or bulge. The process is most pronounced in soils with a high proportion of fine particles, such as silts and clays, which can hold a significant amount of water.

The rate and extent of jäätõmbumine depend on several factors, including the temperature of the ground, the amount of water available, and the type of soil. Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can lead to significant ground deformation over time, potentially damaging structures built on the affected land. In areas prone to jäätõmbumine, construction practices often incorporate measures to mitigate its effects, such as improving drainage, using insulating layers, or designing foundations that can withstand ground movement.

In the context of natural landscapes, jäätõmbumine can contribute to the formation of unique features like patterned ground, which is characterized by polygons, circles, or stripes of stones and soil. These patterns arise from the repeated expansion and contraction of the ground due to freezing and thawing cycles. Understanding jäätõmbumine is crucial for civil engineering, agriculture, and geomorphological studies in cold regions.