Name one feature formed by glacial erosion OR glacial deposition, with the aid of a labelled diagram, how it was formed. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question (i) - 2008

U-shaped valleys are formed primarily through the process of glacial erosion. As a glacier moves down a mountain, it carves out the landscape beneath it. The immense weight and movement of the ice erode the rocks and soil, resulting in the characteristic U shape. The glacial ice acts like a large, slow-moving plow, removing material and deepening the valley.

During periods of glacial advance, the glacier continues to widen and deepen the valley. The process involves plucking and abrasion, where rocks embedded in the ice scrape against the valley walls and floor, further enhancing the U shape. As the glacier retreats, it leaves behind a neatly carved valley that is wider and deeper than what would be formed by river erosion alone.

The labelled diagram illustrating the formation of a U-shaped valley will show the glacier's position, the resulting valley shape, and the processes of erosion taking place.