Why are the glaciers in Switzerland getting smaller?
Warum werden die Gletscher in der Schweiz kleiner?
Correct answer: A
- A because of climate changewegen dem Klimawandel
- B because of the many tourists in the mountainswegen den vielen Touristen in den Bergen
- C because they are used for ski raceswegen der Benutzung für die Ski-Rennen
- D because of the heavy rain in summerwegen dem vielen Regen im Sommer
Why
Climate change is making temperatures rise. In summer more ice melts than is added in winter, so the glaciers are getting smaller.
Common mistakes
- B: because of the many tourists in the mountains
- Tourists hardly change the glaciers. The decisive factor is the heat.
- D: because of the heavy rain in summer
- Rain is not the main reason. The ice melts mainly because of the higher temperatures.
Topic
Föhn, climate change and spatial planning
Switzerland has typical winds. The Föhn is a warm and dry wind from the south. The air rises on the south side of the Alps and loses its rain there. On the north side it drops down into the valley and becomes warm. The Bise, on the other hand, is a cold wind from the north-east.
Switzerland at a glance
Landscape and climate
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 271 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.