What is the name of a single mountain peak carved by a glacier?

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Prepare for the UCF GEO1200 Physical Geography Exam. Enhance your study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your test with confidence!

A single mountain peak that is shaped like a pyramid and has been carved by glacial activity is referred to as a horn. This formation occurs when multiple glaciers erode a mountain from different sides, leading to a sharp, pointed summit. The distinguishing feature of a horn is its steep, rugged profile, often surrounded by steep ridges or faces that are characteristic of glacial erosion processes.

In contrast, an arête is a sharp ridge that forms between two glaciers or glacial valleys, while a cliff is a steep face of rock or earth that can be formed by various processes, not solely glacial. A mountain ridge is a series of peaks or summits and does not specify that a single peak is involved. Therefore, the correct identification of a horn emphasizes both the singular nature of the peak and the specific glacial carving process that creates its distinctive shape.