Alpine glaciers are large masses of ice that form in mountainous regions where the accumulation of snow exceeds its melting. They typically flow down valleys, shaped by the landscape and gravity. These glaciers are found in places like the Rocky Mountains and the Alps, where cold temperatures allow snow to compact into ice over time. As they move, alpine glaciers can carve out distinctive landforms, such as U-shaped valleys and cirques. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing freshwater to rivers and lakes as they melt. Additionally, they are sensitive indicators of climate change, reflecting shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns.