Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 18 - Section 18.2 - Formation and Movement of Glacial Ice - Concept Checks - Page 545: 3

Answer

Crevasses are deep cracks or fissures that form in glaciers. They occur when the stress on the glacier's surface exceeds its strength, causing the ice to fracture. Crevasses can be several meters deep and extend vertically or diagonally across the glacier. Crevasses typically form in areas of the glacier with a significant slope change, such as near the edges or on steep sections. They can also develop in regions where glaciers flow over irregular terrains, such as bumps or ridges in the underlying bedrock. Crevasses are more commonly found in fast-moving glaciers, as the strain and deformation are higher in these areas.

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