What are fjords and how are they formed?

Fjords are characterized as narrow, deep inlets that are typically surrounded by steep cliffs or slopes. Their formation is a result of glacial erosion, where glaciers carve out deep valleys as they move through the landscape. During periods of glacial retreat, seawater floods these U-shaped valleys created by the glaciers, leading to the formation of fjords. The depth of these inlets is significant, as they can extend far below sea level, contributing to their unique topographical features.

The glacial process not only creates their distinctive steep, rugged terrain but also contributes to the question of their depth and shape. The steep walls that define fjords contrast sharply with the gently sloping beaches typically associated with other coastal features. This understanding reinforces the view that fjords are the result of complex geological and glacial processes, distinctly differentiating them from other coastal formations such as inlets formed by river erosion, sediment deposition, or biodiversity-focused coastal areas.