Large-scale karst features and open taliks at Vardeborgsletta, outer Isfjorden, Svalbard

Abstract

Ground temperature measurements show that open taliks occurring at Vardeborgsletta are probably caused by the heat of circulating water from great depths. The absence of permafrost has allowed the ground water to circulate, and large-scale karst features have developed in a limestone area. Karst processes are also active today, and dolines and ponds with sinking drainage occur.