Introducing Geomorphology: A Guide to Landforms and Processes (Introducing Earth and Environmental Sciences)

Geomorphology is the study of the earth's landforms and the processes that made the landscape look the way it does today. What we see when we look at a scenic view is the result of the interplay of the forces that shape the earth's surface. These operate on many different timescales and involve geological as well as climatic forces. This book introduces the varying geomorphological forces and differing timescales from the global, which shapes continents and mountain ranges; through the regional, producing hills and river basins; to the local, forming beaches, glaciers, and slopes; and to those micro scale forces which weather rock faces and produce sediment. Finally, it considers the effect that humans have had on the world's topography. Introducing Geomorphology provides a structured and easily accessible introduction for those with a curiosity about the landscape and for those contemplating a course of formal study in physical geography, geology, or environmental studies. Technical terms are kept to a minimum and a glossary is provided. *** "Presented in full color with plenty of photographs and diagrams throughout, Introducing Geomorphology is recommended for community and college library collections looking to expand their Earth Science driven offerings." The Midwest Book Review, October 2012. *** This guidebook is a well-written, concise, handy reference for students and others who lack a background in geomorphology and are curious about landscape evolution. It is also an excellent refresher for landform interpretation, especially for professional soil scientists, geologists, and engineers involved with landscape problems. Highly recommended. Choice, January 2013, Vol. 50 No. 05 [Subject: Geomorphology, Geology, Geography, Natural Science, Environmental Studies]