MENDENHALL GLACIER Meaning and
Definition
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Mendenhall Glacier is a massive glacier that resides in the southeastern region of the United States' state of Alaska. It is located in the Tongass National Forest, approximately 12 miles northwest of downtown Juneau, the state's capital and largest city. This glacier stretches about 12 miles in length and is part of the Juneau Icefield, which is renowned for holding around 150 individual glaciers.
The Mendenhall Glacier is considered a tidewater glacier, meaning it terminates in a body of water. It flows from the Juneau Icefield and eventually reaches the Mendenhall Lake, which then empties into the Gastineau Channel. This glacier showcases impressive features such as immense ice cliffs, crevasses, and ice caves, capturing the awe and fascination of visitors.
The Mendenhall Glacier has been experiencing steady retreat over the past century due to global warming and climate change. This retreat has led to various visible changes in the landscape, including the formation of Mendenhall Lake and the exposure of bare rocky surfaces previously covered by ice. Despite this retreat, it remains a remarkable natural wonder, drawing numerous tourists who come to witness its breathtaking beauty and learn about the effects of environmental changes on glaciers.
As a significant natural landmark in Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier has also become an important research site for scientists studying glacial dynamics, climate change, and related environmental phenomena. The glacier's accessibility and popularity as a tourist attraction have aided in raising awareness about the urgent need for conservation and sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of climate change on the earth's glaciers.
Common Misspellings for MENDENHALL GLACIER
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Etymology of MENDENHALL GLACIER
The word "Mendenhall Glacier" derives from two distinct origins.
The term "glacier" comes from the French word "glace", which means "ice". This name was given to masses of slow-moving ice because they resemble frozen rivers. The French term "glace" ultimately traces back to the Latin "glacies".
The term "Mendenhall" is derived from the name of Thomas Corwin Mendenhall (1841–1924), an American physicist and geologist. In the late 19th century, Mendenhall played a significant role in the exploration and scientific study of glaciers in Alaska. The glacier was named in his honor as a tribute to his contributions to glaciology.
