Scientists studying Mont Blanc and its surrounding glaciers have discovered that glacial ice atop these summits protect the peaks from erosion.
Findings indicate that glacial ice acts as a protective lid, effectively sheltering mountain rock from the elements, most importantly rain and water damage. At the highest points, ice freezes to the rock and does not contribute significantly towards erosion. Glacier-free areas eroded on average 10 times faster.
So what does this mean for climbers? Well, the impressively high and distinctive peaks of the Alps including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn are currently being well preserved naturally, and as long as glacial ice caps remain, these mountains will be safe for future generations.
It is thought these results may also explain the high altitude of the Alps, and how the shapes of the world’s highest mountains are directly linked to climate change.
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Excellent!