Kame

Kame below Wester Pearsie - geograph.org.uk - 605724

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Dude Hill - Glacial Kame - Yellowstone USA

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Glacial-Drift-PB110031

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Kame internal structure

Kame is a term used in geology and glaciology to describe a particular type of landform that results from the deposition of sediments by meltwater from a retreating glacier or ice sheet. Kames are often associated with other glacial features such as kettle holes, eskers, and drumlins, forming part of a complex landscape shaped by past glacial activity. Understanding kames is crucial for reconstructing Quaternary landscapes and interpreting the dynamic processes that have shaped the Earth's surface.

Formation

Kames form through the deposition of sediments from meltwater streams flowing on, within, or at the edges of melting glaciers. As the glacier retreats, these streams deposit their load of sediments at the glacier's margin. These deposits can accumulate in depressions on the glacier's surface, in crevasses, or between the glacier and the adjacent land. When the ice eventually melts, these sediments are left as small hills or mounds, often with a characteristic steep-sided, conical shape. The composition of kames can vary widely, including sand, gravel, and till, reflecting the diversity of materials transported by the glacier.

Characteristics

Kames are characterized by their irregular shape and composition. They can range in size from small mounds to larger hills, and their surfaces are often pockmarked with kettle holes, where blocks of ice were buried in the sediment and later melted. Kames are typically found in clusters or associated with other glacial features, forming kame terraces or kame fields. Their internal structure is often stratified, with layers of sediments deposited in a sequence that reflects variations in the meltwater flow and the glacier's retreat.

Ecological and Geological Significance

Kames play an important role in the ecology and hydrology of glacial landscapes. Their porous nature allows for the formation of unique wetland habitats, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal life. In addition, kames can affect local groundwater flow and surface water drainage, influencing the distribution and availability of water resources in glacial regions.

Research and Study

The study of kames, along with other glacial features, is an important aspect of Quaternary science, geomorphology, and environmental science. Researchers use kames to interpret past glacial movements, climate conditions, and the processes of sediment deposition. This information is crucial for understanding the history of the Earth's climate and predicting future changes.

See Also

• Glacial landform
• Glacial period
• Ice age
• Moraine
• Outwash plain