Dynamics of glacial and periglacial processes as evidence of global change

Abstract

Glacial and periglacial processes, their landforms, influences of cryogenic destruction, and repeated freezing and thawing effects in rocks and their weathered mantle are described. Main features and dynamics of present-day and former glacial and periglacial environments are presented as an evidence of significant global change of various landscapes in the Quaternary epoch. Knowledge of glacial and periglacial processes and landforms provides a background for understanding the present-day global change processes of the Earth