fjrð

Fjörð is a term of Old Norse origin, commonly translating to "fjord" in English. A fjord is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by glacial erosion. These dramatic geological features are typically found in mountainous coastal regions that were once covered by glaciers. As glaciers moved towards the sea, they carved out deep U-shaped valleys. When the glaciers retreated, these valleys were flooded by seawater, forming fjords.

Norway is particularly famous for its extensive network of fjords, which are a major tourist attraction and a significant part of its cultural identity. Other notable fjord regions include Iceland, Greenland, Alaska, Chile, and New Zealand. Fjords are characterized by their deep, often sheer walls and their connection to the open sea. The depth of a fjord can vary significantly, with some reaching over 1,000 meters.

The formation process of fjords is a slow and powerful geological phenomenon. The immense weight and abrasive action of glaciers carve out the bedrock, creating the characteristic deep troughs. The inland end of a fjord is typically higher than the seaward end, forming a sill or threshold, which is a deposit of glacial moraine. This sill can sometimes restrict water circulation within the fjord. Fjords are ecologically important, providing unique habitats for a variety of marine life.