Which one of the following applies to a valley glacier that lengthens (extends its terminus downslope)over a span of many years?
A)wastage exceeds accumulation
B)accumulation exceeds wastage
C)accumulation and wastage are about equal; the older ice moves farther
D)the glacier experiences no accumulation or wastage

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a valley glacier is lengthening (extending its terminus downslope) over a span of many years, then accumulation (the addition of snow and ice to the glacier) must be exceeding wastage (the loss of ice through melting or calving). This means that the glacier is gaining more mass at its upper end than it is losing at its lower end, resulting in the glacier moving downslope and lengthening over time. Therefore, the best choice is B - accumulation exceeds wastage.

Which One of the Following Applies to a Valley Glacier