Geomorphology - what is geomorphology?
Geomorphology is the scientific study of the Earth's landforms, their processes, evolution, and the forces that shape them over time. It encompasses the investigation of how geological and climatic factors, as well as human activities, contribute to the formation and alteration of landscapes.
prominent geomorphologists along with their definitions of geomorphology:
1. William Morris Davis (1850-1934):
Definition: "Geomorphology is the science of the origin, evolution, form, and spatial distribution of landforms, their processes, and the related surface and subsurface processes operating within Earth's dynamic system."
2. Richard Chorley (1927-2002):
Definition: "Geomorphology is the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them. It seeks to understand why landscapes look the way they do, to understand landform history and dynamics, and to predict future changes through a combination of field observation, physical experiment, and numerical simulation."
3. John Hack (1913-1991):
Definition: "Geomorphology is the study of the form of the Earth's surface and the processes responsible for its development."
4. Jenny Wookey (1938-2003):
Definition: "Geomorphology is the scientific study of the Earth's surface landforms and the processes that create and modify them. It encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines and provides a unique approach to understanding the earth's changing landscapes."
5. Jean Tricart (1920-2003):
Definition: "Geomorphology is the science which studies the relief of the Earth, its forms and their genesis. It analyses the relationships between relief forms and their geological, climatic, biological, and human factors."
These definitions showcase the multidisciplinary nature of geomorphology and its focus on understanding the complex interactions between natural processes that shape our planet's surface.