Glaciers Vocabulary and Landforms

Front

What is a continental ice sheet?

Back

A large mass of glacial ice that covers a significant area of land, such as Greenland or Antarctica.

Front

Where can you find a continental ice sheet today?

Back

Greenland is currently home to a continental ice sheet.

Front

What effect does high elevation have on temperature?

Back

High elevation generally makes temperatures colder due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure and density.

Front

What is the independent variable in the Gooey Glacier Lab with Silly Putty?

Back

The independent variable is accumulation, specifically adding snow.

Front

What effect does low latitude have on temperature?

Back

Low latitude typically results in warmer temperatures due to increased solar radiation.

Front

What is plastic flow in the context of glaciers?

Back

Plastic flow refers to the movement of ice crystals within a glacier as they slide over each other and spread outward.

Front

What are the two main types of glaciers?

Back

The two main types of glaciers are continental glaciers and alpine glaciers.

Front

What is the process of glacial erosion?

Back

Glacial erosion is the process by which glaciers carve and shape the landscape as they move, transporting rock and sediment.

Front

What is the term for the area where a glacier accumulates snow?

Back

The zone of accumulation is where a glacier gathers snow and ice.

Front

What is the term for the area where a glacier loses ice?

Back

The zone of ablation is where a glacier loses ice through melting, sublimation, or calving.