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crescentic gouge
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crescentic gouge

geology
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Quick Summary

The term "crescentic gouge" refers to a geological feature formed by glacial erosion. These are small, curved fractures or gouges found on rock surfaces that have been scoured by glaciers.1

Crescentic gouges are created when a glacier drags a rock or boulder across a hard, brittle rock surface. This process results in a series of sickle-shaped marks. Specifically, a crescentic gouge is concave upstream, meaning its curved opening faces the direction from which the ice was moving. It is formed by the removal of a chip of rock.21

These marks are typically 1 to 5 centimeters in length but can vary. They are often arranged in series, with their orientation perpendicular to the direction of glacial movement, providing clues about the ice flow direction.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. glacial landform - Striations
  2. chatter mark

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