Glacial systems and landscapes

Question 1

What is meant by internal deformation?

Answer 1

A way in which cold based glaciers move under the force of gravity, where great downward pressure is placed upon ice crystals

Question 2

What is the connection between glacial troughs and hanging valleys?

Answer 2

As the trough is created, interlocking spurs are truncated and hanging valleys are left behind as the glacier retreats

Question 3

Distinguish between ablation and accumulation. (3)

Answer 3

• Valley glaciers - ablation refers to the melting of the ice as the snout reaches temperatures above 0 degree centigrade
• Occurs in summer months in lower altitudes
• Accumulation is the build up of snow and ice in a valley glacier, usually at higher altitudes where temperatures are colder
• Ablation exceeds accumulation, the glacier retreats or shrinks in size