Glacier

A glacier is a large, thick mass of ice that forms on land from many years of compacted snow and slowly moves under its own weight.

Formation

Glaciers form in cold regions such as high mountains and polar areas, where more snow falls than melts. Over time the snow compresses into dense ice.

Importance

Glaciers store much of the world's fresh water and feed rivers such as the Ganges. Because of global warming, many glaciers are shrinking, raising concern about water supplies and sea levels.

Frequently asked questions

What is a glacier?

A large, slow-moving mass of ice on land.

Why are glaciers important?

They store fresh water and feed major rivers.