Understanding Glaciers

What makes glaciers unique compared to typical solids?

• They are made of liquid.

• They flow like liquids.

• They are always melting.

• They are lighter than air.

What is necessary for the formation of a glacier besides a mountain of snow?

• Strong winds

• A dry climate

• High temperatures

• The right climate

What is 'firn' in the context of glacier formation?

• A layer of air pockets

• An intermediate state between snow and glacial ice

• A type of rock

• A type of snowflake

How does glacier ice flow without melting?

• By evaporating

• Through the pressure melting point

• By breaking apart

• Through rapid freezing

What happens in the 'zone of plastic flow' of a glacier?

• Ice crystals break apart

• Ice becomes brittle

• Ice crystals stretch and slide past each other

• Ice melts completely

What characterizes the 'zone of brittle flow' in a glacier?

• Low temperature and no movement

• Low pressure and prone to cracking

• High pressure and no cracks

• High temperature and melting

Why do crevasses form near the surface of glaciers?

• Due to high pressure

• Because of rapid freezing

• Because of melting

• Due to cracking under stress

How do glaciers respond to climate changes?

• They grow faster

• They become more solid

• They remain unchanged

• They retreat

What is the current journey of the Mendenhall Glacier?

• It is moving towards the ocean

• It is retreating towards Mendenhall Lake

• It is expanding rapidly

• It is stationary

What is causing the Mendenhall Glacier to retreat?

• More rain

• Warmer summers and less snow in winter

• Increased snowfall

• Colder winters