Determination of Particle Paths using the Finite-Element Method

Large ice masses contain a wealth of information regarding past climates and atmospheric chemistry. To interpret properly information from ice cores obtained from glaciers, a time-scale for the ice core must be established. A procedure based on the finite-element method, using velocity-pressure and stream-function formulations to establish particle paths and hence isochrones, is outlined. Examples are presented which demonstrate the ability of the procedure to predict particle paths and isochrones which can be used to determine the time-scale or to confirm dates established by other methods, of ice cores obtained from large ice masses.