GLACIER FORMATION FUN

In this fun and easy geology science experiment for kids, we’re going to investigate glacier formation.
 
Materials:
 
 
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Instructions:
 
  1. Make a snow ball.
  2. Use your hands to compact the snow as tightly as possible.
  3. Place the compacted snow ball in the freezer for thirty minutes.
  4. The snowball will be a solid chunk of ice. This chunk of ice is your very own mini glacier and simplistically mimics glacier formation. 

  

I hope you enjoyed this super quick tutorial and had fun creating your own mini glacier to investigate and explore. 

Glacial Marvels: Fun Facts for Kids about Glaciers and Their Impact on Geology

Fun Facts about Glaciers and Glacier Formation:

  1. Glaciers are massive bodies of ice that form from the accumulation of snow over many years.

  2. Glacier formation begins when snowfall in a region exceeds snowmelt during the warmer months, causing the snow to accumulate and compress into ice.

  3. Glaciers can be found in both polar regions and high mountain ranges around the world.

  4. Glaciers are constantly moving, albeit very slowly. They flow downhill due to their own weight and the force of gravity.

  5. Glaciers shape the landscape by eroding the land beneath them. As they move, they carve out valleys, create U-shaped valleys, and leave behind distinctive landforms.

  6. Moraines are piles of rocks and debris that are deposited by glaciers. Terminal moraines form at the farthest point reached by a glacier, while lateral moraines form along the sides.

  7. Glacial meltwater plays a significant role in shaping the land. It carves deep channels called glacial valleys and creates features like waterfalls and braided rivers.

  8. Glaciers can leave behind enormous boulders known as glacial erratics. These boulders can be found in areas far from their original source.

  9. During periods of global cooling, glaciers can expand and cover large areas of land, forming ice sheets. The last ice age, which ended around 11,700 years ago, was characterized by extensive ice sheets.

  10. Glaciers store a significant amount of the world's freshwater, and their meltwater contributes to the water supply of rivers and lakes, supporting ecosystems and human communities.

Discover the wonders of glaciers and their impact on shaping the Earth's surface!

 
 
Pro tip: Use this activity to create some excitement around discussions or lessons about glaciers, geology, and more!
 
 
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Question 1: What is the primary factor responsible for glacier formation? A) High temperatures B) Volcanic activity C) Accumulation of snow D) Strong winds

Correct answer: C) Accumulation of snow

Question 2: What landforms are created by glaciers as they move? A) Canyons B) Coral reefs C) Plateaus D) U-shaped valleys

Correct answer: D) U-shaped valleys

Question 3: Which of the following is a characteristic feature of glacial erosion? A) Formation of sand dunes B) Creation of deserts C) Carving of deep channels D) Development of lava flows

Correct answer: C) Carving of deep channels

 
 
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