The study of ice composition represents an effective tool in our understanding of the dynamics of glaciers, ice sheets and ice shelves. The authors relate the distribution of isotopes and impurities in ice masses to ice flow, to the key zone close to the ice-substratum interface and to the mechanisms effective in the contact zone between glacier and ocean. The reader will find a wealth of information in this book, based on the long-range experience of the authors. It contributes to the understanding of global changes that may be induced by a climatic warming due to anthropogenic activities.