On the computation of parameters that model snow avalanche motion
Abstract
This paper explores the computational problem of finding suitable numbers to use in a twoparameter model of snow avalanche dynamics. The two parameters are friction, y, and a ratio of avalanche mass to drag, MID. Given a path profile, and a maxin~uma valanche speed, then it is possible to compute unique values for p and MID. If only the path profile and the stopping position are known, then it is possible t,o compute tables of pairs (p, MID) which can be tested as predictors of avalanche speeds. To generate these tables it is convenient to scale MID in multiples of the total vertical drop of the path. The computations were tested on 136 avalanche paths. Values of (p, MID I were stratified, and certain values were rejected as unrealistic.