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Figures 7a shows the distribution, size and type of selected Himalayan glaciers - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 4
Figures 7a shows the distribution, size and type of selected Himalayan glaciers. Figure 7b shows the change in mass balance of the selected glaciers between 2000 an... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figures 7a shows the distribution, size and type of selected Himalayan glaciers - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Analysis of Figure 7a
Answer
Figure 7a illustrates that the glaciers are predominantly located in a linear fashion from the northwest to southeast. Notably, the glaciers tend to terminate in regions where debris is accumulated, indicating that they are influenced by the underlying topography. Additionally, certain glaciers appear larger in the southeast compared to the north, suggesting variable climatic conditions across the region. The glacier distribution is critical as it also hints at potential hydrological implications affecting surrounding ecosystems.
Step 2
Analysis of Figure 7b
Answer
In Figure 7b, the data reveals significant changes in mass balance from 2000 to 2016. The majority of the glaciers report a negative mass balance over this period, with values varying between -0.7 m/year and -0.5 m/year. This negative trend in mass balance confirms the ongoing glacier retreat, which can be attributed to warming temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. For example, Glacier X shows an annual loss of approximately -0.6 m/year. This consistent reduction in mass balance across different glaciers highlights the impacts of climate change on glaciated regions.