A glacier is a large mound of ice and snow that has been compressed together over a long period of time and is in a state of perpetual motion Glaciers form when snow accumulates over a long period of time, the weight and pressure of the snow causes them to flow downhill under their own weight. Glaciers form when temperatures over a long period of time remain below freezing, causing new snow to form, compact, and eventually slide downhill. Glaciers offer a source of fresh, clean water for many areas in the world, especially in otherwise arid climates.
Glaciers can be found in many parts of the world, but the five best examples of glaciers are:
1. Columbia Icefield, Alberta, Canada: This glacier is the largest in North America and the most accessible. Situated in Jasper National Park, the glacier is almost 30 kilometres long and towers over 300 metres tall. It is a popular tourist attraction and has been visited by millions of people over the years.
2. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina: This glacier is situated in Patagonia, near the border of Chile. It is a stunningly beautiful natural formation, and one of the most impressive sights of the region. At 30 kilometres long and over 5 kilometres wide, it’s one of the most significant glaciers in South America.
3. Biafo Glacier, Pakistan: Located in the Himalayas, this glacier is one of the largest in the world. It is almost 70 kilometres long and is composed of several smaller glaciers. It is a popular destination for mountain climbers and trekkers, who come to explore its majestic ice-covered cliffs and peaks.
4. Furtwängler Glacier, Tanzania: This glacier is located on the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. It is an impressive spectacle, being over 20 kilometres long and with an area of roughly 400 kilometres squared. The glacier has been greatly affected by climate change, and has been retreating at an alarming rate.
5. Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand: Situated in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, this glacier is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions. It is one of the most easily accessible glacier in the world, and is visited by thousands of people each year. At 12 kilometres long, it is an impressive sight to behold.
These five glaciers showcase some of the most remarkable formations in the world. They have been molded and shaped by the forces of nature and are a testament to the resilience and power of Mother Nature.