Earth Science & Energy
Glacier Ice Flow Velocity (Glen's Flow Law) Sizer
Calculate glacier ice flow velocity (glen's flow law) using the stated engineering or scientific relationship and adjustable field inputs.
Preparing your result…
What this calculator does
Calculates Glacier Ice Flow Velocity (Glen's Flow Law) Sizer using the formula verified against the cited source.
What your result means
An estimate from the inputs you enter, within the scope stated below — not advice.
Formula
Ideal no-slip slab, Glen's law n = 3: surface speed u_s = 2A/(n+1) × (ρ g sin α)^n × H^(n+1); depth-mean = 2A/(n+2) × (ρ g sin α)^n × H^(n+1)
The step-by-step working for your own numbers appears with the result above and in the PDF report.
Frequently asked questions
Symbols and assumptions
- Inputs
- The values entered in the fields above
- • Ideal no-slip slab surface deformation speed=2A/(n+1)×[ρice g sinα]^n×H^(n+1). A selected n=3 model with H m, ρ kg/m³, g m/s² and A Pa^−3s^−1 yields m/s.
Sources and review
Reviewed 2026-10-18 · Next review 2027-04-18
- • Current inputs omit n and ice density; expose these or explicitly state the selected n=3 and density constants. Distinguish surface from depth-mean speed (different denominator). This ideal slab neglects basal sliding, side drag and longitudinal stresses; it is not total observed glacier motion.
Important limitation
This is an educational estimate based only on the values and formula shown. Verify current rates, rules, units, and professional standards before relying on the result. It is not personalized financial or investment advice.
Quick reference
| Scenario | Ice thickness (m) | Surface slope (°) | Rate factor A (×10⁻²⁴; ≈ 2.4 for temperate ice) (Pa⁻³ s⁻¹) | Surface deformation speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worked example | 200 | 5 | 2.4 | 29.1718 m/year |
| Half the amounts | 100 | 2.5 | 1.2 | 0.0847 m/year |
| Double the amounts | 400 | 10 | 4.8 | 7,455.7506 m/year |
Need the full picture? Get the detailed PDF report with charts, tables, formulas and working steps.
Reviewed 2026-10-18 · Next review 2027-04-18
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