Case Study - Glacial erosion in Scotland

Question 1

Which side of Scotland experienced much more pronounced glacial erosion and areal sourcing?

Answer 1

The west side of Scotland experienced much more pronounced glacial erosion and areal sourcing than the east, creating contrasting landscapes.

Question 2

Where in Scotland did warm-based lowland ice sheets source large areas through abrasion and plucking, producing extensive knock and lochan topography?

Answer 2

In Sutherland and the Isle of Lewis

Question 3

Why were narrow and steep-sided glacial troughs created in the west of Scotland?

Answer 3

Thicker glacier ice accumulated in the valley’s to the west where precipitation was highest. The thickness of the ice induced pressure melting at the base of valley glaciers, causing an increase in energy and intense abrasion and plucking. Valley cross-section and long profile details are controlled by the underlying resistant granite, producing narrow and steep-sided glacial troughs.

Question 4

Which landforms of glacial erosion were produced in eastern Scotland?

Answer 4

• Roches Moutonnees
• Crag-and-tail landforms