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The extension of the Late Weichselian/Late Devensian ice sheets in the North Sea Basin
Author(s) -
Ehlers Jürgen,
Wingfield Robin
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
journal of quaternary science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.142
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1099-1417
pISSN - 0267-8179
DOI - 10.1002/jqs.3390060406
Subject(s) - geology , meltwater , ice sheet , paleontology , geomorphology , erosion , sea ice , oceanography , glacial period
The distribution of large channel‐like features, comprising Weichselian/Devensian incisions, in the western North Sea provides evidence for a much larger extension of the last ice sheet than currently assumed. Morphological comparison of the incisions with those in North Germany and Poland reveals a striking similarity in shape and distribution. The features on the North Sea floor are interpreted as being formed by meltwater erosion within the margin of the ice sheet. The widespread absence of Weichselian/Devensian till in the area under consideration may be attributed to later erosion. Large‐scale reworking and redistribution of sediments is indicated by the complete sediment infill of the majority of the incisions.