GEO 347LEC – Climatic Geomorphology

GEO 347LEC – Climatic Geomorphology: Understanding the Dynamics of Earth’s Surface

Geomorphology is the study of the physical features of the Earth’s surface and the processes that create and shape them. Climatic geomorphology, as the name suggests, is the study of how climate affects and influences the Earth’s surface. The course GEO 347LEC – Climatic Geomorphology delves into the various aspects of the relationship between climate and the Earth’s surface. In this article, we will explore the different topics covered in this course and gain a better understanding of the dynamics of the Earth’s surface.

Introduction to Climatic Geomorphology

In the first module of GEO 347LEC, students are introduced to the concept of climatic geomorphology. The module covers the fundamental principles and theories of geomorphology, such as the rock cycle, tectonic plates, and the hydrologic cycle. Students also learn about the different types of climate and how they affect the Earth’s surface.

Weathering and Erosion

In this module, students learn about the processes of weathering and erosion and how they shape the Earth’s surface. Weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller pieces, while erosion is the process by which these small pieces are transported to a different location. The module also covers the different types of weathering and erosion, such as physical, chemical, and biological.

Fluvial Geomorphology

Fluvial geomorphology is the study of how rivers and streams shape the Earth’s surface. This module covers the different types of rivers, such as meandering and braided, and how they form. Students also learn about the different features of a river, such as deltas, alluvial fans, and floodplains.

Glacial Geomorphology

This module covers the study of how glaciers shape the Earth’s surface. Glaciers are large masses of ice that move slowly over the Earth’s surface and can cause significant changes to the landscape. Students learn about the different types of glaciers, such as valley and continental glaciers, and how they form. They also learn about the various features that glaciers can create, such as moraines, drumlins, and eskers.

Periglacial Geomorphology

Periglacial geomorphology is the study of the Earth’s surface in regions that are adjacent to glaciers or are affected by freeze-thaw cycles. In this module, students learn about the different types of periglacial environments, such as tundra and permafrost. They also learn about the various features that can be found in these environments, such as pingos, patterned ground, and solifluction lobes.

Coastal Geomorphology

Coastal geomorphology is the study of how the ocean and other coastal processes shape the Earth’s surface. This module covers the different types of coastlines, such as rocky and sandy, and the various features that can be found in these environments, such as cliffs, beaches, and dunes. Students also learn about the impact of coastal erosion and sea-level change on coastal environments.

Karst Geomorphology

Karst geomorphology is the study of how the dissolution of carbonate rocks shapes the Earth’s surface. In this module, students learn about the different types of karst environments, such as sinkholes and caves, and the various features that can be found in these environments, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the course GEO 347LEC – Climatic Geomorphology provides students with an in-depth understanding of how climate affects and shapes the Earth’s surface. Through the various modules, students are introduced to the fundamental principles and theories of geomorphology, the different types of climates and how they impact the Earth’s surface, and the different processes and features that can be found in various environments. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to study and analyze the Earth’s surface and its changing dynamics.

FAQs

1. What is climatic geomorphology?

• Climatic geomorphology is the study of how climate affects and influences the Earth’s surface.

1. What are the different types of weathering and erosion?

• The different types of weathering and erosion are physical, chemical, and biological.

1. What is fluvial geomorphology?

• Fluvial geomorphology is the study of how rivers and streams shape the Earth’s surface.

1. What is coastal geomorphology?

• Coastal geomorphology is the study of how the ocean and other coastal processes shape the Earth’s surface.

1. What is karst geomorphology?

• Karst geomorphology is the study of how the dissolution of carbonate rocks shapes the Earth’s surface.