A lateral moraine is a type of landform created by the accumulation of debris, such as rocks and soil, that has been transported by a glacier. These formations are found along the sides of a glacier and are formed as the glacier moves and erodes the surrounding landscape. When the glacier melts, the debris is left behind, creating a ridge-like structure. Lateral moraines are important for understanding glacial processes and the history of a region's climate. They can provide insights into the movement of glaciers, such as those in the Alps or Rocky Mountains, and help scientists study past environmental conditions.