Publication Date

2015

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Konen, Michael E.

Degree Name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Legacy Department

Department of Geography

LCSH

Geography; Geomorphology; Soil sciences; Landforms--Illinois--De Kalb County; Landforms--Illinois--Northern; Mesas--Illinois--De Kalb County; Mesas--Illinois--Northern

Abstract

Ice-Walled-Lake Plains (IWLPs) with superimposed landforms have been noted, but never extensively researched, in the DeKalb region of Northern Illinois. This study aims to describe the superimposed landforms (SILs) and propose a theory of their genesis. These SILs appear as circular ramparts with interior depressions. Seventy two total landforms were identified using black and white aerial photography. Two hypotheses were tested; that the SILs were glacial and formed concurrently to the IWLPs, or that the SILs were periglacial and formed after the IWLPs, and after the retreat of the last glacier. Data that was gathered on these superimposed landforms was compared to relict IWLPs in the Midwest, and modern periglacial landforms in the Arctic. After analyzing morphometrics and sedimentology, it was determined that the superimposed landforms are likely relict periglacial frost mounds (pingos). This proves the existence of past permafrost in the Northern Illinois area, and can be used to aid in paleo-climatic reconstructions.

Comments

Advisors: Michael E. Konen.||Committee members: Courtney Gallaher; Wei Luo.

Extent

111 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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