What is a lateral moraine?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition or explanation of what a lateral moraine is, which relates to glacial geology. A lateral moraine is a type of landform that consists of debris deposited on the sides of a glacier.
Answer
A lateral moraine is a ridge-shaped moraine deposited at the side of a glacier.
The final answer is that a lateral moraine is a ridge-shaped moraine deposited at the side of a glacier, composed of material eroded from the valley walls by the moving glacier.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that a lateral moraine is a ridge-shaped moraine deposited at the side of a glacier, composed of material eroded from the valley walls by the moving glacier.
More Information
Lateral moraines are important indicators of past glacial activity. By studying their composition and structure, scientists can infer valuable information about the history and dynamics of glaciers.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing lateral moraine with other types of moraines such as terminal or medial moraines. Remember, lateral moraines specifically form along the sides of glaciers.
Sources
- Lateral moraine | geology - Britannica - britannica.com
- Moraine - National Geographic Education - education.nationalgeographic.org
- lateral moraine - National Snow and Ice Data Center - nsidc.org
