Great post uniquorn! I'm only now realizing the shallowness there must have had an impact on the shape of the arch.
So, let's break down the variables available:
- Tidal forces, causing the sea ice to move horizontally (mainly).
- Current forces, pushing the ice vertically,
but also horizontally in this area (because it's getting more shallow, pressure on ice from below increases).
- Winds, pushing the ice vertically (mainly).
- The structural integrity of the arch depending on the shape, thickness and homogeneity of the ice.
Is that it or are there any more? And how do they interact exactly? And which of them are the strongest/weakest impact wise?
Edit: One more variable could be underwater waves as mentioned here by JohnM33:
Edit 2: Even more variables, thanks uniquorn:
- Water temperature and salinity impacts ice quality so this should mainly influence the structural integrity
- Upwelling, adds to current forces
- Air temps, long term but not quite yet
- The speed of breakups/collapses (domino effect)