Understanding Glaciers and Volcanoes

A new glacier has formed on an active volcano in Washington, specifically on Mount St Helens. Despite the unusual coexistence of ice and lava, the glacier formed due to snow accumulating faster than it could melt. The crater left by the 1980 eruption provided a shaded area ideal for glacier formation. Even when the volcano erupted again in 2004, the glacier survived by adapting to the lava flow, continuing to grow.

What makes the new glacier in Washington unique?

• It is located in a desert.

• It is on top of an active volcano.

• It is the largest glacier in the world.

• It is melting rapidly.

What is necessary for a glacier to form?

• A constant supply of rain.

• High temperatures.

• Strong winds.

• Snow accumulating faster than it melts.

How did the crater from the 1980 eruption contribute to glacier formation?

• It increased the temperature, melting the snow.

• It created a lake that froze over.

• It provided a shaded area where snow could accumulate.

• It blocked sunlight completely.

What happened to the glacier during the 2004 eruption?

• It turned into a lake.

• It was unaffected and continued to grow.

• It moved to a different location.

• It melted completely.

How did the glacier adapt to the volcanic activity in 2004?

• It became dormant.

• It squeezed like Silly Putty to let the lava through.

• It evaporated into the atmosphere.

• It split into two separate glaciers.