Understanding Glaciers and Climate Change

Glaciers have shaped Earth's landscapes for millions of years. They are massive ice bodies that move slowly over land, classified into alpine glaciers and ice sheets. Alpine glaciers form on mountainsides, while ice sheets cover vast areas like Antarctica and Greenland. Glaciers form from accumulated snow that compresses into ice, moving under their weight. They provide resources like fertile soil and freshwater. Climate change accelerates glacier melting, raising sea levels and altering ecosystems. Glaciers serve as indicators of climate change, warning of potential global impacts.

What is the primary impact of climate change on glaciers?

• They are becoming more stable.

• They are moving faster.

• They are disappearing.

• They are expanding rapidly.

Which type of glacier forms on mountainsides?

• Ice sheets

• Continental glaciers

• Alpine glaciers

• Valley glaciers

Where are ice sheets primarily found?

• On every continent except Australia

• In mountainous areas

• In Antarctica and Greenland

• In tropical regions

What is the term for the dense, grainy ice that survives a melt cycle?

• Permafrost

• Snowpack

• Fern

• Glacial ice

How do glaciers contribute to the formation of valleys?

• By expanding rapidly

• By pushing dirt and soil out of their way

• By creating ice sheets

• By melting and refreezing

What is a significant resource provided by glaciers?

• Minerals

• Fossil fuels

• Freshwater

• Saltwater

What is glacial till used for?

• Creating ice sculptures

• Generating electricity

• Growing crops

• Building roads

How do melting ice sheets affect sea levels?

• They lower sea levels.

• They have no effect on sea levels.

• They raise sea levels.

• They stabilize sea levels.

What could be a consequence of less salt in the ocean due to glacier melt?

• Decreased ocean currents

• More stable weather patterns

• Disturbance of the Gulf Stream

• Increased ocean biodiversity

What role do glaciers play in indicating climate change?

• They increase global temperatures.

• They stabilize the climate.

• They act as an early warning system.

• They show no signs of climate change.