Geography A-Level
Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) Sensitivity
What Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) Sensitivity means in Geography A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) Sensitivity
The ELA marks the boundary where annual accumulation equals annual ablation. Its migration is a primary indicator of climate change; a rising ELA reduces the accumulation area ratio (AAR), leading to a sustained negative mass balance and eventual glacial thinning.
Topics that use Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) Sensitivity
- Glaciated Landscapes and Change (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Abrasion
- Accumulation and Ablation Dynamics
- Anthropogenic Encroachment
- Anthropogenic Radiative Forcing
- Bergschrund
- Climate Change and Cryospheric Flux
- Coastal Landscape Development
- Cryogenic Weathering and Mass Movement
Using Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA) Sensitivity in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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