trykliddelse

Trykliddelse is a Danish term that translates to "pressure dissolution" in English. It refers to a geological process where rocks dissolve under the influence of applied pressure. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in the context of glacial erosion and the formation of landforms.

When ice sheets exert significant pressure on the underlying bedrock, the water at the interface between the ice and the rock can become more chemically active. This increased pressure lowers the freezing point of water, allowing it to exist in a liquid state even at sub-zero temperatures. This liquid water can then facilitate the dissolution of minerals in the bedrock.

Trykliddelse is thought to play a role in the formation of glacial features such as cirques, U-shaped valleys, and fjords. The relentless pressure of glaciers, combined with the chemical action of meltwater, can gradually wear away bedrock over geological timescales. While it is a slow process, its cumulative effect can be substantial in shaping the Earth's surface. The exact mechanisms and rates of trykliddelse are still areas of ongoing scientific research.