Glacial rebound, also known as isostatic rebound, occurs when land that was previously compressed by heavy ice sheets begins to rise after the ice melts. This process happens because the Earth's crust is elastic and can slowly return to its original shape once the weight is removed. As the glaciers retreat, the land can rise several centimeters per year, depending on the region. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in areas that were covered by the last major ice age, such as parts of Canada and Scandinavia. Over thousands of years, glacial rebound can significantly alter landscapes and ecosystems.