Geomorphology: Geomorphic Process and Its Type

Geomorphology is the scientific study of the origin and evolution of topographic features. These features created by physical, chemical or biological processes operating at or near Earth's surface.

If you ask for a basic definition-It is the study of the earth's physical features and the processes in which those features are formed.

Processes that shaped the Geomorphic features generally come into-
(1) the production of regolith by weathering and erosion,
(2) the transport of that material, and
(3) its deposition.
Primary surface processes responsible for most topographic features include wind, waves, chemical dissolution, mass wasting, groundwater movement, surface water flow, glacial action, tectonism, and volcanism.



Aeolian processes-Aeolian processes mean the activity of the winds. Wind shapes the surface of the Earth. Sand dune, Yardangs.

Biological processes-many living organisms shape the landforms, including biogeochemical processes controlling chemical weathering While mechanical methods control the Mechanical process like burrowing.

Fluvial processes-Means Rivers and streams are able to shape the land features, they mobilize sediment and transport it downstream, either as bed load, suspended load or dissolved load. Delta, Bars and Levee.

Glacier Process- The gradual movement of ice down a valley causes abrasion and plucking of the underlying rock. they form various features on earth like moraine. Glacial erosion is responsible for U-shaped valleys. Fjord, Hanging valley.

Igneous processes-Both volcanic and plutonic igneous processes can have significant impacts on geomorphology. laccoliths, sills, Caldera.

Tectonic processes-Tectonic effects on geomorphology can range from scales of millions of years to minutes or less. it depends on the underlying bedrock fabric. Earthquakes can create many features on earth. Volcanic Arc, Mid oceanic ridges.

Marine processes-Marine processes are those associated with the action of waves, marine currents and seepage of fluids through the seafloor. Sea caves, Sea cliffs.

A geomorphologist studies the land forms of Earth. They also will study why landforms have the appearance they have and the history of specific landforms. In studying the history of landforms, geomorphologists can predict changes that can take place in the future.




Glacial Landforms
   • Glacial landforms:Glacial Geomorphology  

Eskers and Moraine
   • Eskers and moraine Landforms:Differen...  

What is Levee
   • What is Levee: Levees landform  

What is Yardangs
   • What is Yardang: Eolian feature/How y...  

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