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Difference between a cirque and a tarn

 Cirques and tarns are landforms commonly found in mountainous regions, particularly in areas influenced by glaciation. They are formed by glacial processes but differ in their specific characteristics and formation mechanisms.


Table: Difference between Cirque and Tarn


Aspect Cirque Tarn

Definition A cirque is a bowl-shaped hollow or amphitheater-like landform with steep walls, typically located on the side of a mountain. A tarn is a small mountain lake or pool formed within a cirque, often occupying the basin of a melted glacier.

Formation Formed by glacial erosion as ice carves out a concave-shaped basin on the mountainside. Formed by the accumulation of water within the basin of a cirque as the glacier retreats and melts.

Shape Has a distinctive bowl-like shape with steep or vertical walls. Takes the shape of a small, often circular or oval-shaped lake or pool.

Location Located on the side or near the head of a mountain or valley. Located within the basin or depression of a cirque.

Water Source Water sources for a cirque can include melting snow, rainfall, and runoff from surrounding slopes. Water source for a tarn is typically the melting of ice and snow within the cirque or precipitation.

Characteristics Often has a rock lip or threshold at its lower end, which may act as a barrier to hold water and form a tarn. Tarns are characterized by their still and often clear water, surrounded by steep slopes or cliffs.

Importance Cirques serve as important indicators of past glacial activity and are often associated with other glacial landforms. Tarns provide habitats for various aquatic organisms and can be scenic attractions in mountainous areas.

Conclusion: Cirques and tarns are related landforms associated with glacial processes. Cirques are distinctive amphitheater-like hollows formed by glacial erosion, while tarns are small mountain lakes or pools that occupy the basins of melted glaciers within cirques. Cirques serve as indicators of past glacial activity and are often associated with other glacial landforms, while tarns provide habitats for aquatic organisms and contribute to the scenic beauty of mountainous regions.

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