Which process limits the downcutting rate in cirques during glacial maximum?

💡 Explanation

When ice thickness increases beyond a threshold value, the enhanced pressure at the base results in a buoyancy effect that reduces the effective stress on the bedrock preventing further downcutting by abrasion. Therefore unloading limits erosion rates, rather than weathering, meltwater lubrication or ablation which enhance glacial erosion in less pronounced high-basal-pressure environments.

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