Book 20, Question 109
How Do Scientists Measure Whether a Mountain Glacier Is Growing or Shrinking?
Scientists can tell if a mountain glacier is growing or shrinking by keeping careful track of its ice. They use stakes, photos, GPS, and even lasers on airplanes. It is like checking a glacier's bank account!
More fun facts
- Scientists measure where a glacier's front edge ends each year.
- They poke stakes into the ice to see how much melts.
- Snow pits show how much new snow piled up.
- Satellites like Landsat can map a glacier's whole edge each year.
- Together, these show if a glacier is growing or shrinking.
Sources: U.S. Geological Survey, National Park Service, NASA Science
Questions kids ask
How do stakes help measure a glacier?
Scientists poke stakes into the ice to see how much melts.