Lateral moraines are ridges of debris that form along the sides of a glacier. As glaciers move, they erode the surrounding rock and soil, which gets pushed to the edges. This accumulation of material creates a distinct ridge that can be seen once the glacier retreats. These features are important for understanding glacial processes and the history of a region. Lateral moraines can provide insights into the size and movement of glaciers, such as those found in the Alps or Rocky Mountains. They also help scientists study past climate conditions and landscape changes over time.