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Figure 7a shows the distribution, size and type of selected Himalayan glaciers - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 4
Figure 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 and... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 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 primarily situated in a linear fashion from north to south-east. The southern end of the glaciers tends to demonstrate more variances in size compared to the glaciers in the north. Notably, in the southeastern area, a significant number of glaciers appear larger, whereas the glaciers in the south exhibit more terminus retreat and debris coverage compared to their northern counterparts. This potentially indicates variances in climatic and geological conditions influencing these regions.
Step 2
Analysis of Figure 7b
Answer
Figure 7b depicts changes in mass balance from 2000 to 2016. On average, the selected glaciers have experienced a negative mass balance with a consistent trend. The rates indicate that some glaciers showed a negative change of approximately -0.5 m/year, while others experience higher negative values, such as -0.7 m/year. This suggests that the glaciers are responding to climatic variations leading to decreased mass, showcasing a concerning trend in glacial health.
Step 3
Overall Trends and Implications
Answer
Combining insights from both figures, it is evident that as the glaciers exhibit signs of shrinkage (as shown in Figure 7a), there is also a corresponding negative shift in mass balance (Figure 7b). This relationship highlights potential implications for water resources and ecosystems reliant on glacial meltwater, as these glaciers are a critical water source for many regions. The consistent negative mass balance over the years also raises alarms regarding the speed of glacial retreat in response to climate change.