How Are Glacial Cirques Formed?

Cirque can be formed through glacial erosion or fluvial erosion. Cirque formed through glacial erosion is called a glacial cirque while fluvial cirque is formed by fluvial erosion. Glacial cirques are found in mountain ranges across the world and are typically about one kilometer long and one kilometer wide.

How are cirques produced?

A horn results when glaciers erode three or more arêtes, usually forming a sharp-edged peak. Cirques are concave, circular basins carved by the base of a glacier as it erodes the landscape. The Matterhorn in Switzerland is a horn carved away by glacial erosion.

How do glacial horns formed?

Nunataks, arêtes, and horns are the result of glacial erosion in areas where multiple glaciers flow. When the ice is present, they form stark, rocky outcrops above it, adding to the beauty of these harsh landscapes. Once the ice retreats, these uniquely-shaped features provide clear evidence of past glacier flow.