Glacial Processes: Erosion vs. Deposition

What is the difference between glacial erosion and glacial deposition?

How do glaciers contribute to the formation of landforms through erosion and deposition?

Answer:

Glacial erosion involves a glacier moving over land and altering its shape by picking up rocks and sediments. On the other hand, glacial deposition occurs when glaciers deposit these materials as they retreat or melt, creating various landforms.

Explanation:

The process of glacial erosion and glacial deposition are two integral parts of the glacial cycle. Glacial erosion occurs when a glacier moves over the land, picking up rocks and sediments in its path. This process can carve deep valleys and sharp peaks into the landscape, as the moving ice and water works akin to a very slow, extremely heavy bulldozer.

Conversely, glacial deposition is when glaciers drop, or 'deposit', the rock and sediment materials that were picked up during the process of glacial erosion. These deposited materials, known as till, are often left behind when a glacier retreats or melts. They can create a range of landforms, such as moraines, drumlins, and kames.