What geological feature plays a critical role in the history of Lake Ontario’s formation?

What geological feature plays a critical role in the history of Lake Ontario’s formation?

• A. Erosion
• B. Volcanic activity
• C. Glacial activity
• D. Coastal deposition

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights the significant role of glacial activity in the formation of Lake Ontario. During the last Ice Age, massive glaciers advanced and retreated across North America, including the area that is now Lake Ontario. This glacial movement carved out the basins that would eventually become the Great Lakes. When the glaciers melted, the water that accumulated in these depressions formed the lakes. Glacial activity not only created the physical structure of Lake Ontario but also influenced its size, depth, and overall layout. As the glaciers retreated, they also left behind various sediment deposits, reshaping the surrounding landscape and contributing to the lake's current ecosystem. Understanding the impact of glacial activity provides insight into the geological history of the region, distinguishing it from processes like erosion, volcanic activity, or coastal deposition, which, while they may also influence landscapes, did not play the primary role in the creation of Lake Ontario specifically.

The correct answer highlights the significant role of glacial activity in the formation of Lake Ontario. During the last Ice Age, massive glaciers advanced and retreated across North America, including the area that is now Lake Ontario. This glacial movement carved out the basins that would eventually become the Great Lakes. When the glaciers melted, the water that accumulated in these depressions formed the lakes.

Glacial activity not only created the physical structure of Lake Ontario but also influenced its size, depth, and overall layout. As the glaciers retreated, they also left behind various sediment deposits, reshaping the surrounding landscape and contributing to the lake's current ecosystem.

Understanding the impact of glacial activity provides insight into the geological history of the region, distinguishing it from processes like erosion, volcanic activity, or coastal deposition, which, while they may also influence landscapes, did not play the primary role in the creation of Lake Ontario specifically.