How do glaciers form?
snow accumulates on the ocean and freezes to become an iceberg.
snow accumulates on land and does not melt.
snow accumulates on land and then melts over the summer.

Glaciers form when snow accumulates on land over many years, compressing under its own weight into dense ice. This process often occurs in polar regions or high mountains, where temperatures are low enough that the snow doesn’t fully melt during warmer seasons. The continued compression and addition of new snow lead to the development of massive, slow-moving ice rivers!

Interestingly, while some think icebergs are the main actors in the story of glaciers, they actually break off from glaciers that flow into the ocean. In fact, this calving process is a vital part of the life cycle of a glacier, as it helps regulate its size and contributes to sea level changes. So next time you see an iceberg, remember it’s just a cheeky chunk of a glacier enjoying a swim!