SettingsGeomorphology
Aeolian processes
Aeolian processes pertain to the activity of the winds and more specifically, to the winds' ability to shape the surface of the Earth and other planets.
Aeolian processes pertain to the activity of the winds and more specifically, to the winds' ability to shape the surface of the Earth and other planets.
Aggradation
Aggradation is the term used in geology for the increase in land elevation due to the deposition of sediment.
Aggradation is the term used in geology for the increase in land elevation due to the deposition of sediment.
Alluvial river
An alluvial river is a lowland river in which the bed and banks are made up of mobile sediment and/or soil.
An alluvial river is a lowland river in which the bed and banks are made up of mobile sediment and/or soil.
Anabranch
An anabranch is a section of a river or stream that diverts from the main channel or stem of the watercourse and rejoins the main stem downstream.
An anabranch is a section of a river or stream that diverts from the main channel or stem of the watercourse and rejoins the main stem downstream.
Antecedent drainage stream
An antecedent stream is a stream that maintains its original course and pattern despite the changes in underlying rock topography.
An antecedent stream is a stream that maintains its original course and pattern despite the changes in underlying rock topography.
Armor (hydrology)
Armor, in hydrology and geography is the association of surface pebbles, rocks or boulders with stream beds or beaches.
Armor, in hydrology and geography is the association of surface pebbles, rocks or boulders with stream beds or beaches.
Avulsion (river)
In sedimentary geology and fluvial geomorphology, avulsion is the rapid abandonment of a river channel and the formation of a new river channel.
In sedimentary geology and fluvial geomorphology, avulsion is the rapid abandonment of a river channel and the formation of a new river channel.
Badlands
A badlands is a type of dry terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and clay-rich soils have been extensively eroded by wind and water.
A badlands is a type of dry terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and clay-rich soils have been extensively eroded by wind and water.
Badlands Guardian
The Badlands Guardian is a geomorphological feature located near Medicine Hat in the south east corner of Alberta, Canada.
The Badlands Guardian is a geomorphological feature located near Medicine Hat in the south east corner of Alberta, Canada.
Baer's law
In geology, Baer's law, named after Karl Ernst von Baer, says that, because of the rotation of the earth, in the Northern Hemisphere, erosion occurs mostly on the right banks of rivers and in th...
In geology, Baer's law, named after Karl Ernst von Baer, says that, because of the rotation of the earth, in the Northern Hemisphere, erosion occurs mostly on the right banks of rivers and in th...
Bar (river morphology)
A bar in a river is a depressed region of sediment (such as sand or gravel) that has been deposited by the flow.
A bar in a river is a depressed region of sediment (such as sand or gravel) that has been deposited by the flow.
Base level
The base level of a river or stream is the lowest point to which it can flow, often referred to as the 'mouth' of the river.
The base level of a river or stream is the lowest point to which it can flow, often referred to as the 'mouth' of the river.
Beachrock
Beachrock is a friable to well-cemented sedimentary rock that consists of a mixture of gravel-, sand-, and silt-sized sediment that is cemented with carbonate minerals and has formed along a s...
Beachrock is a friable to well-cemented sedimentary rock that consists of a mixture of gravel-, sand-, and silt-sized sediment that is cemented with carbonate minerals and has formed along a s...
Bed load
The term bed load or bedload describes particles in a flowing fluid (usually water) that are transported along the bed.
The term bed load or bedload describes particles in a flowing fluid (usually water) that are transported along the bed.
Bed material load
The bed material load is the portion of the sediment that is transported by a stream that contains material derived from the bed.
The bed material load is the portion of the sediment that is transported by a stream that contains material derived from the bed.
Bench (geology)
In geomorphology, geography and geology, a bench or benchland is a long, relatively narrow strip of relatively level or gently inclined land that is bounded by distinctly steeper slopes ab...
In geomorphology, geography and geology, a bench or benchland is a long, relatively narrow strip of relatively level or gently inclined land that is bounded by distinctly steeper slopes ab...
Bifurcation lake
Bifurcation lake is a lake that naturally has outflows into two different drainage basins and thus the drainage divide cannot be defined exactly because it is situated in the middle of the lake.
Bifurcation lake is a lake that naturally has outflows into two different drainage basins and thus the drainage divide cannot be defined exactly because it is situated in the middle of the lake.
Biogeomorphology
Biogeomorphology and ecogeomorphology are the study of interactions between organisms and the development of landforms, and are thus fields of study within geomorphology and ichnology.
Biogeomorphology and ecogeomorphology are the study of interactions between organisms and the development of landforms, and are thus fields of study within geomorphology and ichnology.
Blockfield
A blockfield or felsenmeer is a surface covered by block-sized angular rocks usually associated alpine and subpolar climates and periglaciation.
A blockfield or felsenmeer is a surface covered by block-sized angular rocks usually associated alpine and subpolar climates and periglaciation.
Bradyseism
Bradyseism is the gradual uplift or descent of part of the Earth's surface caused by the filling or emptying of an underground magma chamber and/or hydrothermal activity, particularly in volcani...
Bradyseism is the gradual uplift or descent of part of the Earth's surface caused by the filling or emptying of an underground magma chamber and/or hydrothermal activity, particularly in volcani...
Braid bar
Braid Bars, or mid-channel bars, are landforms in a river that begin to form when the discharge is low and the river is forced to take the route of less resistance by means of flowing in locatio...
Braid Bars, or mid-channel bars, are landforms in a river that begin to form when the discharge is low and the river is forced to take the route of less resistance by means of flowing in locatio...
Braided river
A braided river is one of a number of channel types and has a channel that consists of a network of small channels separated by small and often temporary islands called braid bars or, in British...
A braided river is one of a number of channel types and has a channel that consists of a network of small channels separated by small and often temporary islands called braid bars or, in British...
Bratschen
Bratschen are weathering features that occur as a result of frost and abrasion almost exclusively on the calc-schists of the Upper Slate Mantle in the High Tauern mountains of Austria.
Bratschen are weathering features that occur as a result of frost and abrasion almost exclusively on the calc-schists of the Upper Slate Mantle in the High Tauern mountains of Austria.
British Society for Geomorphology
The British Society for Geomorphology (BSG) is the professional organisation for British geomorphologists and provides a community and services for those involved in teaching or research in geom...
The British Society for Geomorphology (BSG) is the professional organisation for British geomorphologists and provides a community and services for those involved in teaching or research in geom...
Channel types
A wide variety of river and stream channel types exist in limnology.
A wide variety of river and stream channel types exist in limnology.
Claypan
In geology, a claypan is a dense, compact, slowly permeable layer in the subsoil having a much higher clay content than the overlying material, from which it is separated by a sharply defined bo...
In geology, a claypan is a dense, compact, slowly permeable layer in the subsoil having a much higher clay content than the overlying material, from which it is separated by a sharply defined bo...
Cliff-former
The term cliff-former is a geologic term indicating that a unit of bedrock is more resistant to erosion than overlying or underlying units and consequently outcrops have high slope angles.
The term cliff-former is a geologic term indicating that a unit of bedrock is more resistant to erosion than overlying or underlying units and consequently outcrops have high slope angles.
Coastal erosion
Coastal erosion is the wearing away of land and the removal of beach or dune sediments by wave action, tidal currents, wave currents, or drainage.
Coastal erosion is the wearing away of land and the removal of beach or dune sediments by wave action, tidal currents, wave currents, or drainage.
Coastal sediment supply
Coastal Sediment Supply is the transport of sediment to the beach environment by both fluvial and aeolian transport.
Coastal Sediment Supply is the transport of sediment to the beach environment by both fluvial and aeolian transport.
Colin Woodroffe (geographer)
Colin D. Woodroffe is a geographer and coastal geomorphologist currently serving as Professorial Fellow at the University of Wollongong.
Colin D. Woodroffe is a geographer and coastal geomorphologist currently serving as Professorial Fellow at the University of Wollongong.
Colluvium
Colluvium is the name for loose bodies of sediment that have been deposited or built up at the bottom of a low-grade slope or against a barrier on that slope, transported by gravity.
Colluvium is the name for loose bodies of sediment that have been deposited or built up at the bottom of a low-grade slope or against a barrier on that slope, transported by gravity.
Community Surface Dynamics Modeling System
The Community Surface Dynamics Modeling System (CSDMS) deals with the Earth's surface and the observable and projected changes constantly taking place.
The Community Surface Dynamics Modeling System (CSDMS) deals with the Earth's surface and the observable and projected changes constantly taking place.
Complex response
Complex Response: An environmental reaction to change that occurs at multiple levels to multiple objects, and can induce a chain reaction of responses to a single initial change.
Complex Response: An environmental reaction to change that occurs at multiple levels to multiple objects, and can induce a chain reaction of responses to a single initial change.
Cosmogenic radionuclide dating
Cosmogenic radionuclide dating is the use of certain cosmogenic radionuclides to date how long a particular surface has been exposed, how long a certain piece of material has been buried, or how...
Cosmogenic radionuclide dating is the use of certain cosmogenic radionuclides to date how long a particular surface has been exposed, how long a certain piece of material has been buried, or how...
Cryosuction
Cryosuction is the process in freezing soils whereby water migrates through soil pores to the freezing zone (through capillary action).
Cryosuction is the process in freezing soils whereby water migrates through soil pores to the freezing zone (through capillary action).
Cuesta
In structural geology and geomorphology, a cuesta (from Spanish: "slope") is a ridge formed by gently tilted sedimentary rock strata in a homoclinal structure.
In structural geology and geomorphology, a cuesta (from Spanish: "slope") is a ridge formed by gently tilted sedimentary rock strata in a homoclinal structure.
Cycle of erosion
The cycle of erosion was a model for stream erosion and landscape development proposed by William Morris Davis in the late 19th century.
The cycle of erosion was a model for stream erosion and landscape development proposed by William Morris Davis in the late 19th century.
Debris flow
Debris flows are fast moving, liquefied landslides of mixed and unconsolidated water and debris that look like flowing concrete.
Debris flows are fast moving, liquefied landslides of mixed and unconsolidated water and debris that look like flowing concrete.
Degradation (geology)
In geology, degradation refers to the lowering of a fluvial surface, such as a stream bed or floodplain, through erosional processes.
In geology, degradation refers to the lowering of a fluvial surface, such as a stream bed or floodplain, through erosional processes.
Denudation
In geology, denudation is the long-term sum of processes that cause the wearing away of the earth’s surface leading to a reduction in elevation and relief of landforms and landscapes.
In geology, denudation is the long-term sum of processes that cause the wearing away of the earth’s surface leading to a reduction in elevation and relief of landforms and landscapes.
Desert
A desert is a landscape or region that receives an extremely low amount of precipitation, less than enough to support growth of most plants.
A desert is a landscape or region that receives an extremely low amount of precipitation, less than enough to support growth of most plants.
Differential weathering
Differential weathering is the difference in degree of discoloration, disintegration, etc., of rocks of different kinds exposed to the same environment.
Differential weathering is the difference in degree of discoloration, disintegration, etc., of rocks of different kinds exposed to the same environment.
Digital elevation model
A digital elevation model is a digital model or 3D representation of a terrain's surface — commonly for a planet, moon, or asteroid — created from terrain elevation data.
A digital elevation model is a digital model or 3D representation of a terrain's surface — commonly for a planet, moon, or asteroid — created from terrain elevation data.
Diluvium
Diluvium is a term in geology for superficial deposits formed by flood-like operations of water, and so contrasted with alluvium or alluvial deposits formed by slow and steady aqueous agencies.
Diluvium is a term in geology for superficial deposits formed by flood-like operations of water, and so contrasted with alluvium or alluvial deposits formed by slow and steady aqueous agencies.
Downhill creep
Downhill creep, or commonly just creep, is the slow downward progression of rock and soil down a low grade slope; it can also refer to slow deformation of such materials as a result of pro...
Downhill creep, or commonly just creep, is the slow downward progression of rock and soil down a low grade slope; it can also refer to slow deformation of such materials as a result of pro...
Drainage basin
A drainage basin is an extent or an area of land where surface water from rain and melting snow or ice converges to a single point, usually the exit of the basin, where the waters join another ...
A drainage basin is an extent or an area of land where surface water from rain and melting snow or ice converges to a single point, usually the exit of the basin, where the waters join another ...
Drainage density
Drainage density is the total length of all the streams and rivers in a drainage basin divided by the total area of the drainage basin.
Drainage density is the total length of all the streams and rivers in a drainage basin divided by the total area of the drainage basin.
Drainage divide
A drainage divide, water divide, divide or watershed is the line separating neighbouring drainage basins.
A drainage divide, water divide, divide or watershed is the line separating neighbouring drainage basins.
Drainage system (geomorphology)
In geomorphology, a drainage system is the pattern formed by the streams, rivers, and lakes in a particular drainage basin.
In geomorphology, a drainage system is the pattern formed by the streams, rivers, and lakes in a particular drainage basin.
Dreikanter
Dreikanters typically form in desert or periglacial environments from the action of wind erosion.
Dreikanters typically form in desert or periglacial environments from the action of wind erosion.
Electromechanical disintegration
Electromechanical disintegration is a process in geomorphology in which lightning interacts in erosion and weathering.
Electromechanical disintegration is a process in geomorphology in which lightning interacts in erosion and weathering.
Emergent coastline
Emergent coastlines are stretches along the coast that have been exposed by the sea due to a relative fall in sea levels.
Emergent coastlines are stretches along the coast that have been exposed by the sea due to a relative fall in sea levels.
Entrenched river
An entrenched river is a river that is confined to a canyon or gorge, usually with a relatively narrow width and little or no flood plain, and often with meanders worn into the landscape.
An entrenched river is a river that is confined to a canyon or gorge, usually with a relatively narrow width and little or no flood plain, and often with meanders worn into the landscape.
Erosion and tectonics
The interplay between erosion and tectonics has been a matter of debate since the early 1990s.
The interplay between erosion and tectonics has been a matter of debate since the early 1990s.
Erosion prediction
There are dozens of erosion prediction models.
There are dozens of erosion prediction models.
European Watershed
The European Watershed is the line which divides the drainage basins of the major rivers of Germany: the Rhine, which originates in the Swiss Alps and empties into the North Sea via the Netherla...
The European Watershed is the line which divides the drainage basins of the major rivers of Germany: the Rhine, which originates in the Swiss Alps and empties into the North Sea via the Netherla...
Exhumed river channel
An exhumed river channel is a ridge of sandstone that remains when the softer flood plain mudstone is eroded away.
An exhumed river channel is a ridge of sandstone that remains when the softer flood plain mudstone is eroded away.
Exner equation
The Exner equation is a statement of conservation of mass that applies to sediment in a fluvial system such as a river.
The Exner equation is a statement of conservation of mass that applies to sediment in a fluvial system such as a river.
Falesia
In Italy, falesia is a vertical rock sheer on the sea.
In Italy, falesia is a vertical rock sheer on the sea.
Fall line
A fall line (or fall zone) is a geomorphologic unconformity (e.g., monoclinal faulting and/or flexing) between an upland region of relatively hard crystalline basement rock and a coastal p...
A fall line (or fall zone) is a geomorphologic unconformity (e.g., monoclinal faulting and/or flexing) between an upland region of relatively hard crystalline basement rock and a coastal p...
Fault block
Fault-block landforms (mountains, hills, ridges, etc.) are formed when large areas of bedrock are widely broken up by faults creating large vertical displacements of continental crust.
Fault-block landforms (mountains, hills, ridges, etc.) are formed when large areas of bedrock are widely broken up by faults creating large vertical displacements of continental crust.
Fault scarp
A fault scarp is the topographic expression of faulting attributed to the displacement of the land surface by movement along faults.
A fault scarp is the topographic expression of faulting attributed to the displacement of the land surface by movement along faults.
Fault-block mountain
Fault-block landforms are formed when large areas of bedrock are widely broken up by faults creating large vertical displacements of continental crust.
Fault-block landforms are formed when large areas of bedrock are widely broken up by faults creating large vertical displacements of continental crust.
Feeder bluff
A feeder bluff is a geomorphological term whose use is primarily restricted to the Puget Sound region.
A feeder bluff is a geomorphological term whose use is primarily restricted to the Puget Sound region.
Flat coast
At a flat coast or flat shoreline, the land descends gradually into the sea.
At a flat coast or flat shoreline, the land descends gradually into the sea.
Flatiron (geomorphology)
A flatiron in geomorphology is a steeply sloping wedge-shaped landscape feature created by differential erosion of a resistant rock layer which is inclined in the same direction as, but at a ste...
A flatiron in geomorphology is a steeply sloping wedge-shaped landscape feature created by differential erosion of a resistant rock layer which is inclined in the same direction as, but at a ste...
Floodplain
A floodplain, or flood plain, is a flat or nearly flat land adjacent a stream or river that stretches from the banks of its channel to the base of the enclosing valley walls and exp...
A floodplain, or flood plain, is a flat or nearly flat land adjacent a stream or river that stretches from the banks of its channel to the base of the enclosing valley walls and exp...
Fluvial
Fluvial is a term used in geography and Earth science to refer to the processes associated with rivers and streams and the deposits and landforms created by them.
Fluvial is a term used in geography and Earth science to refer to the processes associated with rivers and streams and the deposits and landforms created by them.
Fold mountain
Fold mountains are mountains formed mainly by the effects of folding on layers within the upper part of the Earth's crust.
Fold mountains are mountains formed mainly by the effects of folding on layers within the upper part of the Earth's crust.
Forebulge
In geology, a forebulge is a flexural bulge in front of a load on the lithosphere.
In geology, a forebulge is a flexural bulge in front of a load on the lithosphere.
Frost heaving
Frost heaving results from ice forming beneath the surface of soil during freezing conditions in the atmosphere.
Frost heaving results from ice forming beneath the surface of soil during freezing conditions in the atmosphere.
Geologic map
A geologic map or geological map is a special-purpose map made to show geological features.
A geologic map or geological map is a special-purpose map made to show geological features.
Giant current ripples
Giant current ripples are active channel topographic forms up to 20 m high, which develop within near-talweg areas of the main outflow valleys created by glacial lake outburst floods.
Giant current ripples are active channel topographic forms up to 20 m high, which develop within near-talweg areas of the main outflow valleys created by glacial lake outburst floods.
Gravitational erosion
Gravitational erosion is caused by gravity in contrast to the physical movement of wind and water required for other types of soil erosion.
Gravitational erosion is caused by gravity in contrast to the physical movement of wind and water required for other types of soil erosion.
Groundwater sapping
Groundwater sapping is the geomorphic process in which groundwater exits a bank or hillslope laterally as seeps and springs and erodes soil from the slope.
Groundwater sapping is the geomorphic process in which groundwater exits a bank or hillslope laterally as seeps and springs and erodes soil from the slope.
Hack's law
Hack's law is an empirical relationship between the length of streams and the area of their basins.
Hack's law is an empirical relationship between the length of streams and the area of their basins.
Head Cut (Stream Geomorphology)
Head Cut (Stream Geomorphology) is an erosional feature of some intermittent streams and perennial streams where an abrupt vertical drop in the stream bed occurs.
Head Cut (Stream Geomorphology) is an erosional feature of some intermittent streams and perennial streams where an abrupt vertical drop in the stream bed occurs.
Hjulström curve
The Hjulström curve, named after Filip Hjulström, is a graph used by hydrologists to determine whether a river will erode, transport, or deposit sediment.
The Hjulström curve, named after Filip Hjulström, is a graph used by hydrologists to determine whether a river will erode, transport, or deposit sediment.
Hogback (geology)
A hogback is a homoclinal ridge, formed from a monocline, composed of steeply tilted strata of rock protruding from the surrounding area.
A hogback is a homoclinal ridge, formed from a monocline, composed of steeply tilted strata of rock protruding from the surrounding area.
Homocline
In structural geology, a uniclinal structure, homoclinal structure, unicline or homocline (from old homo = same, cline = inclination) is a sedimenta...
In structural geology, a uniclinal structure, homoclinal structure, unicline or homocline (from old homo = same, cline = inclination) is a sedimenta...
Hypsometric curve
A hypsometric curve is an empirical cumulative distribution function of elevations in a catchment.
A hypsometric curve is an empirical cumulative distribution function of elevations in a catchment.
Hypsometry
Hypsometry (from Greek ὕψος, hupsos, "height" and μέτρον, metron, "measure") is the measurement of land elevation relative to sea level.
Hypsometry (from Greek ὕψος, hupsos, "height" and μέτρον, metron, "measure") is the measurement of land elevation relative to sea level.
Ice dune
An ice dune is a formation of ice that accumulates on the shores of many arctic beaches and is also common along the shores of the Great Lakes during the winter.
An ice dune is a formation of ice that accumulates on the shores of many arctic beaches and is also common along the shores of the Great Lakes during the winter.
Interior Low Plateaus
Interior Low Plateaus are a physiographic province.
Interior Low Plateaus are a physiographic province.
Interlocking spur
An interlocking spur is a natural geographical feature that occurs in the upper course of a river in which downward erosion is the dominant force determining the river's course.
An interlocking spur is a natural geographical feature that occurs in the upper course of a river in which downward erosion is the dominant force determining the river's course.
Inverted relief
Inverted topography or topographic inversion refers to landscape features that have reversed their elevation relative to other features.
Inverted topography or topographic inversion refers to landscape features that have reversed their elevation relative to other features.
Inverted topography
Inverted topography or topographic inversion refers to landscape features that have reversed their elevation relative to other features.
Inverted topography or topographic inversion refers to landscape features that have reversed their elevation relative to other features.
Island welding
Island welding is a geomorphological term to describe the process of welding sandy barrier islands back on to the mainland.
Island welding is a geomorphological term to describe the process of welding sandy barrier islands back on to the mainland.
Isostasy
Isostasy (Greek ísos "equal", stásis "standstill") is a term used in geology to refer to the state of gravitational equilibrium between the earth's lithosphere and asthenosphere such tha...
Isostasy (Greek ísos "equal", stásis "standstill") is a term used in geology to refer to the state of gravitational equilibrium between the earth's lithosphere and asthenosphere such tha...
Karst
Karst topography is a geological formation shaped by the dissolution of a layer or layers of soluble bedrock, usually carbonate rock such as limestone or dolomite, but has also been documente...
Karst topography is a geological formation shaped by the dissolution of a layer or layers of soluble bedrock, usually carbonate rock such as limestone or dolomite, but has also been documente...
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, located 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico (near Cochiti), is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) managed site that was established as a U.S. Nat...
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, located 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico (near Cochiti), is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) managed site that was established as a U.S. Nat...
Kilometre per square kilometre
Kilometre per square kilometre is an SI derived unit used for measurement of density of a linear feature in an area.
Kilometre per square kilometre is an SI derived unit used for measurement of density of a linear feature in an area.
Kirk Bryan (geologist)
Kirk Bryan (22 July 1888 in Albuquerque, New Mexico - 22 August 1950 in Cody, Wyoming) was the son of R.W.D. Bryan( Astronomer Under Hall in the Polaris expedition) an American geologist on the ...
Kirk Bryan (22 July 1888 in Albuquerque, New Mexico - 22 August 1950 in Cody, Wyoming) was the son of R.W.D. Bryan( Astronomer Under Hall in the Polaris expedition) an American geologist on the ...
Knickpoint
A knickpoint is a term in geomorphology to describe a location in a river or channel where there is a sharp change in channel slope, such as a waterfall or lake, resulting from differential rate...
A knickpoint is a term in geomorphology to describe a location in a river or channel where there is a sharp change in channel slope, such as a waterfall or lake, resulting from differential rate...
Kolk
A kolk (also known as colc) is an underwater vortex that is created when rapidly rushing water passes an underwater obstacle in boundary areas of high shear.
A kolk (also known as colc) is an underwater vortex that is created when rapidly rushing water passes an underwater obstacle in boundary areas of high shear.
Landscape evolution model
A landscape evolution model is a physically-based numerical model that simulates changing terrain over the course of time.
A landscape evolution model is a physically-based numerical model that simulates changing terrain over the course of time.
Large scale coastal behaviour
Large scale coastal behaviour is an attempt to model the morphodynamics of coastal change at time and space scales appropriate to management and prediction.
Large scale coastal behaviour is an attempt to model the morphodynamics of coastal change at time and space scales appropriate to management and prediction.
Ledoyom
Ledoyom (ледоём) is a term proposed by Russian geologist V.P. Nekhoroshev for intermontane depressions which might get completely filled by glaciers from the surrounding mountains at the maxima ...
Ledoyom (ледоём) is a term proposed by Russian geologist V.P. Nekhoroshev for intermontane depressions which might get completely filled by glaciers from the surrounding mountains at the maxima ...
Lena Pillars
Lena Pillars is the name given to a natural rock formation along the banks of the Lena River in far eastern Siberia.
Lena Pillars is the name given to a natural rock formation along the banks of the Lena River in far eastern Siberia.
Lineament
A lineament is a linear feature in a landscape which is an expression of an underlying geological structure such as a fault.
A lineament is a linear feature in a landscape which is an expression of an underlying geological structure such as a fault.
Lithalsa
Lithalsa is a frost-induced raised land form in permafrost areas with mineral-rich soils, where a perennial ice lens has developed within the soil.
Lithalsa is a frost-induced raised land form in permafrost areas with mineral-rich soils, where a perennial ice lens has developed within the soil.
Log jam
A log jam is an accumulation of Large Woody Debris (logs more than four inches in diameter and over six feet long) that can span an entire stream or river channel.
A log jam is an accumulation of Large Woody Debris (logs more than four inches in diameter and over six feet long) that can span an entire stream or river channel.
Longshore drift
Longshore drift consists of the transportation of sediments along a coast at an angle to the shoreline, which is dependent on prevailing wind direction, swash and backwash.
Longshore drift consists of the transportation of sediments along a coast at an angle to the shoreline, which is dependent on prevailing wind direction, swash and backwash.
Losing stream
A losing stream, or inluent stream, is a stream or river that loses water as it flows downstream.
A losing stream, or inluent stream, is a stream or river that loses water as it flows downstream.
Managed retreat
In the context of coastal erosion, managed retreat (also managed realignment) allows an area that was not previously exposed to flooding by the sea to become flooded by removing coastal protection.
In the context of coastal erosion, managed retreat (also managed realignment) allows an area that was not previously exposed to flooding by the sea to become flooded by removing coastal protection.
Manning formula
The Manning formula, known also as the Gauckler–Manning formula, or Gauckler–Manning–Strickler formula in Europe, is an empirical formula for open channel flow, or free-surface flow ...
The Manning formula, known also as the Gauckler–Manning formula, or Gauckler–Manning–Strickler formula in Europe, is an empirical formula for open channel flow, or free-surface flow ...
Manpupuner rock formations
The Manpupuner rock formations (Man-Pupu-Nyer; Мань-Пупу-нёр) or the Seven Strong Men Rock Formations or Poles of the Komi Republic are a set of 7 gigantic abnormally shaped stone pi...
The Manpupuner rock formations (Man-Pupu-Nyer; Мань-Пупу-нёр) or the Seven Strong Men Rock Formations or Poles of the Komi Republic are a set of 7 gigantic abnormally shaped stone pi...
Marcahuasi
Marcahuasi is a plateau in the Andes Mountains, located east of Lima, on the mountain range that rises to the right bank of the Rimac River.
Marcahuasi is a plateau in the Andes Mountains, located east of Lima, on the mountain range that rises to the right bank of the Rimac River.
Marine terrace
A marine terrace, coastal terrace, raised beach or perched coastline is a relatively flat, horizontal or gently inclined surface of marine origin, mostly an old abrasion platfo...
A marine terrace, coastal terrace, raised beach or perched coastline is a relatively flat, horizontal or gently inclined surface of marine origin, mostly an old abrasion platfo...
Mass wasting
Mass wasting, also known as slope movement or mass movement, is the geomorphic process by which soil, regolith, and rock move downslope under the force of gravity.
Mass wasting, also known as slope movement or mass movement, is the geomorphic process by which soil, regolith, and rock move downslope under the force of gravity.
Meander cutoff
A meander cutoff occurs when a meander bend in a river is breached by a chute channel that connects the two closest parts of the bend.
A meander cutoff occurs when a meander bend in a river is breached by a chute channel that connects the two closest parts of the bend.
Mineral spring
Mineral springs are naturally occurring springs that produce water containing minerals, or other dissolved substances, that alter its taste or give it a purported therapeutic value.
Mineral springs are naturally occurring springs that produce water containing minerals, or other dissolved substances, that alter its taste or give it a purported therapeutic value.
Mittelgebirge
A Mittelgebirge (singular, the term is German) is a relatively low mountain range, a typical geographical feature of Central Europe, especially Central and Southern Germany; it refers to somethi...
A Mittelgebirge (singular, the term is German) is a relatively low mountain range, a typical geographical feature of Central Europe, especially Central and Southern Germany; it refers to somethi...
Monolith
A monolith is a geological feature such as a mountain, consisting of a single massive stone or rock, or a single piece of rock placed as, or within, a monument.
A monolith is a geological feature such as a mountain, consisting of a single massive stone or rock, or a single piece of rock placed as, or within, a monument.
Mouth bar
A mouth bar is a bar in a river that is typically created in the middle of a channel in a river delta.
A mouth bar is a bar in a river that is typically created in the middle of a channel in a river delta.
National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics
The National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics, or NCED, is an NSF Science and Technology Center- a collaborative partnership among educational, research, and public/private entities that aims t...
The National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics, or NCED, is an NSF Science and Technology Center- a collaborative partnership among educational, research, and public/private entities that aims t...
Orography
Orography (from the Greek όρος, hill, γραφία, to write) is the study of the formation and relief of mountains, and can more broadly include hills, and any part of a region's elevated terrain.
Orography (from the Greek όρος, hill, γραφία, to write) is the study of the formation and relief of mountains, and can more broadly include hills, and any part of a region's elevated terrain.
Palsa
Palsas are low, often oval, frost heaves occurring in polar and subpolar climates, which contain permanently frozen ice lenses.
Palsas are low, often oval, frost heaves occurring in polar and subpolar climates, which contain permanently frozen ice lenses.
Patterned ground
Patterned ground is a term used to describe the distinct, and often symmetrical geometric shapes formed by ground material in periglacial regions.
Patterned ground is a term used to describe the distinct, and often symmetrical geometric shapes formed by ground material in periglacial regions.
Pediment (geology)
A pediment is a gently inclined erosional surface carved into bedrock.
A pediment is a gently inclined erosional surface carved into bedrock.
Pediplen
Pediplen - the extensive slightly inclined denudation plain, which is formed under the conditions of arid and semiaridnogo climate on the spot is earlier than the existed mountain or hilly relie...
Pediplen - the extensive slightly inclined denudation plain, which is formed under the conditions of arid and semiaridnogo climate on the spot is earlier than the existed mountain or hilly relie...
Pedra da Galinha Choca
Pedra da Galinha Choca (Rock of the Brooding Hen) is a rock formation in the city of Quixadá, taking its name from its curious shape.
Pedra da Galinha Choca (Rock of the Brooding Hen) is a rock formation in the city of Quixadá, taking its name from its curious shape.
Peneplain
A peneplain is a low-relief plain representing the final stage of fluvial erosion during times of extended tectonic stability.
A peneplain is a low-relief plain representing the final stage of fluvial erosion during times of extended tectonic stability.
Permafrost
In geology, permafrost or cryotic soil is soil at or below the freezing point of water for two or more years.
In geology, permafrost or cryotic soil is soil at or below the freezing point of water for two or more years.
Physiographic province
A physiographic province is a geographic region with a specific geomorphology and often specific subsurface rock type or structural elements.
A physiographic province is a geographic region with a specific geomorphology and often specific subsurface rock type or structural elements.
Pingo
A pingo, also called a hydrolaccolith, is a mound of earth-covered ice found in the Arctic and subarctic that can reach up to in height and up to in diameter.
A pingo, also called a hydrolaccolith, is a mound of earth-covered ice found in the Arctic and subarctic that can reach up to in height and up to in diameter.
Planation
Planation is a geomorphological process which creates nearly flat surfaces by fluvial, aeolian and marine processes.
Planation is a geomorphological process which creates nearly flat surfaces by fluvial, aeolian and marine processes.
Playfair's Law
In estimating erosion, Playfair's Law is an empirical relationship that relates the size of a stream to the valley it runs through.
In estimating erosion, Playfair's Law is an empirical relationship that relates the size of a stream to the valley it runs through.
Plunge pool
A plunge pool (or plunge basin or waterfall lake) can be a natural hydrologic fluvial landform feature or a constructed recreational garden feature.
A plunge pool (or plunge basin or waterfall lake) can be a natural hydrologic fluvial landform feature or a constructed recreational garden feature.
Point bar
A point bar is a depositional feature of streams.
A point bar is a depositional feature of streams.
Post-glacial rebound
Post-glacial rebound is the rise of land masses that were depressed by the huge weight of ice sheets during the last glacial period, through a process known as isostasy.
Post-glacial rebound is the rise of land masses that were depressed by the huge weight of ice sheets during the last glacial period, through a process known as isostasy.
Pressure ridge (ice)
A pressure ridge is an ice formation typically found on large frozen lakes or sea ice during the winter.
A pressure ridge is an ice formation typically found on large frozen lakes or sea ice during the winter.
Rejuvenation (river)
A river is said to be rejuvenated when the base level that it is flowing down to is lowered.
A river is said to be rejuvenated when the base level that it is flowing down to is lowered.
Riffle-pool sequence
In a flowing stream, a riffle-pool sequence (also known as a pool-riffle sequence) develops as a stream's hydrological flow structure alternates from areas of relatively shallow to deeper water.
In a flowing stream, a riffle-pool sequence (also known as a pool-riffle sequence) develops as a stream's hydrological flow structure alternates from areas of relatively shallow to deeper water.
River
rivers are highly unnatural and can kill people at will by farting watercourse, usually freshwater, flowing towards an ocean, a lake, a sea, or another river.
rivers are highly unnatural and can kill people at will by farting watercourse, usually freshwater, flowing towards an ocean, a lake, a sea, or another river.
River bifurcation
River bifurcation (from Latin furca, fork) occurs when a river flowing in a single stream separates into two or more separate streams (called distributaries) which continue downstream.
River bifurcation (from Latin furca, fork) occurs when a river flowing in a single stream separates into two or more separate streams (called distributaries) which continue downstream.
River channel migration
River channel migration is the lateral motion of an alluvial river channel across its floodplain due to processes of erosion of and deposition on its banks and bars.
River channel migration is the lateral motion of an alluvial river channel across its floodplain due to processes of erosion of and deposition on its banks and bars.
River island
A river island or river archipelago is any landmass or fluvial landform within a river.
A river island or river archipelago is any landmass or fluvial landform within a river.
River morphology
The terms river morphology and its synonym fluvial geomorphology are used to describe the shapes of river channels and how they change over time.
The terms river morphology and its synonym fluvial geomorphology are used to describe the shapes of river channels and how they change over time.
Rock veneer
A rock veneer is a geomorphic formation wherein rock fragments of gravel or cobble size form a thin cover over a surface or hillslope.
A rock veneer is a geomorphic formation wherein rock fragments of gravel or cobble size form a thin cover over a surface or hillslope.
Rouse number
The Rouse number is a non-dimensional number in fluid dynamics which is used to define a concentration profile of suspended sediment and which also determines how sediment will be transported in...
The Rouse number is a non-dimensional number in fluid dynamics which is used to define a concentration profile of suspended sediment and which also determines how sediment will be transported in...
Sag (geology)
In geology a sag, or syncline, is a depressed, persistent, low area; the opposite of an arch, or anticline, a raised, persistent, high area.
In geology a sag, or syncline, is a depressed, persistent, low area; the opposite of an arch, or anticline, a raised, persistent, high area.
Sag pond
A sag pond is a body of water, which forms as water collects in the lowest parts of the depression that forms between two strands of an active strike-slip fault.
A sag pond is a body of water, which forms as water collects in the lowest parts of the depression that forms between two strands of an active strike-slip fault.
Schmidt hammer
A Schmidt hammer, also known as a Swiss hammer or a rebound hammer, is a device to measure the elastic properties or strength of concrete or rock, mainly surface hardness and penetration r...
A Schmidt hammer, also known as a Swiss hammer or a rebound hammer, is a device to measure the elastic properties or strength of concrete or rock, mainly surface hardness and penetration r...
Schrofen
Schrofen is a German mountaineering term that refers to steep terrain, strewn with rocks and rock outcrops, that is laborious to cross, but whose rock ledges (Schrofen) offer many good steps...
Schrofen is a German mountaineering term that refers to steep terrain, strewn with rocks and rock outcrops, that is laborious to cross, but whose rock ledges (Schrofen) offer many good steps...
Sea Eye Lake
The Mushyl lake, nicknamed the Sea Eye is a minor karst lake in Shariboksad, Volzhsky District, Mari El, Russia.
The Mushyl lake, nicknamed the Sea Eye is a minor karst lake in Shariboksad, Volzhsky District, Mari El, Russia.
Sediment transport
Sediment transport is the movement of solid particles (sediment), typically due to a combination of the force of gravity acting on the sediment, and/or the movement of the fluid in which the sed...
Sediment transport is the movement of solid particles (sediment), typically due to a combination of the force of gravity acting on the sediment, and/or the movement of the fluid in which the sed...
Shear velocity
Shear velocity, also called friction velocity, is a form by which a shear stress may be re-written in units of velocity.
Shear velocity, also called friction velocity, is a form by which a shear stress may be re-written in units of velocity.
Shen Kuo
Shen Kuo or Shen Gua (1031–1095), style name Cunzhong (存中) and pseudonym Mengqi (now usually given as Mengxi) Weng (夢溪翁), was a polymathic Chinese scientist and sta...
Shen Kuo or Shen Gua (1031–1095), style name Cunzhong (存中) and pseudonym Mengqi (now usually given as Mengxi) Weng (夢溪翁), was a polymathic Chinese scientist and sta...
Shutter ridge
A shutter ridge is a ridge which has moved along a fault line, blocking or diverting drainage.
A shutter ridge is a ridge which has moved along a fault line, blocking or diverting drainage.
Slide (geography)
A Slide in physical geography is a term for the fixed or settled residue of a landslide that has stabilized, sometimes in the form of an alluvial fan.
A Slide in physical geography is a term for the fixed or settled residue of a landslide that has stabilized, sometimes in the form of an alluvial fan.
Slope-former
The term slope-former is a geologic term indicating that a unit of bedrock is less resistant to erosion than overlying or underlying units and consequently outcrops have low slope angles.
The term slope-former is a geologic term indicating that a unit of bedrock is less resistant to erosion than overlying or underlying units and consequently outcrops have low slope angles.
Slump (geology)
A Slump is a form of mass wasting that occurs when a coherent mass of loosely consolidated materials or rock layers moves a short distance down a slope.
A Slump is a form of mass wasting that occurs when a coherent mass of loosely consolidated materials or rock layers moves a short distance down a slope.
Spill containment
Spill containment is where spills of chemicals, oils, sewage etc are contained within a barrier or drainage system rather than being absorbed at the surface.
Spill containment is where spills of chemicals, oils, sewage etc are contained within a barrier or drainage system rather than being absorbed at the surface.
Spring (hydrology)
A spring—also known as a rising or resurgence—is a component of the hydrosphere.
A spring—also known as a rising or resurgence—is a component of the hydrosphere.
Spring (hydrosphere)
A spring—also known as a rising or resurgence—is a component of the hydrosphere.
A spring—also known as a rising or resurgence—is a component of the hydrosphere.
Steep coast
A steep coast is a stretch of coastline where the mainland descends abruptly into the sea.
A steep coast is a stretch of coastline where the mainland descends abruptly into the sea.
Strahler number
In mathematics, the Strahler number or Horton–Strahler number of a mathematical tree is a numerical measure of its branching complexity.
In mathematics, the Strahler number or Horton–Strahler number of a mathematical tree is a numerical measure of its branching complexity.
Stream bed
A stream bed is the channel bottom of a stream, river or creek; the physical confine of the normal water flow.
A stream bed is the channel bottom of a stream, river or creek; the physical confine of the normal water flow.
Stream capture
Stream capture, river capture, or stream piracy is a geomorphological phenomenon occurring when a stream or river drainage system or watershed is diverted from its own bed, and flows...
Stream capture, river capture, or stream piracy is a geomorphological phenomenon occurring when a stream or river drainage system or watershed is diverted from its own bed, and flows...
Stream channel
Stream channel is the physical confine of a stream (river) consisting of a bed and stream banks.
Stream channel is the physical confine of a stream (river) consisting of a bed and stream banks.
Stream gradient
Stream gradient is the grade (slope) measured by the ratio of drop in a stream per unit distance, usually expressed as feet per mile or metres per kilometre.
Stream gradient is the grade (slope) measured by the ratio of drop in a stream per unit distance, usually expressed as feet per mile or metres per kilometre.
Stream power
Stream power is the rate of energy dissipation against the bed and banks of a river or stream.
Stream power is the rate of energy dissipation against the bed and banks of a river or stream.
Stream power law
The term stream power law describes a semi-empirical family of equations used to predict the rate of erosion of a river into its bed.
The term stream power law describes a semi-empirical family of equations used to predict the rate of erosion of a river into its bed.
Subsidence
Subsidence is the motion of a surface as it shifts downward relative to a datum such as sea-level.
Subsidence is the motion of a surface as it shifts downward relative to a datum such as sea-level.
Suffosion
Suffosion is one of the two geological processes by which subsidence sinkholes or dolines are formed, the other being "dropout", with most sinkholes formed by the suffosion process.
Suffosion is one of the two geological processes by which subsidence sinkholes or dolines are formed, the other being "dropout", with most sinkholes formed by the suffosion process.
Surface exposure dating
Surface exposure dating is a collection of geochronological techniques for estimating the length of time that a rock has been exposed at or near the earth's surface.
Surface exposure dating is a collection of geochronological techniques for estimating the length of time that a rock has been exposed at or near the earth's surface.
Talik
A talik (from the Russian Language talik, derived from the verb tait, to melt) is a layer of year-round unfrozen ground that lies in permafrost areas.
A talik (from the Russian Language talik, derived from the verb tait, to melt) is a layer of year-round unfrozen ground that lies in permafrost areas.
Tectonic uplift
Tectonic uplift is a geological process most often caused by plate tectonics which increases elevation.
Tectonic uplift is a geological process most often caused by plate tectonics which increases elevation.
Terrace Crossing
A terrace crossing is a geographical zone between the sedimentation (downstream) part and the erosion (upstream) part of the river.
A terrace crossing is a geographical zone between the sedimentation (downstream) part and the erosion (upstream) part of the river.
Thalweg
Thalweg (; "valley way") in geography and fluvial geomorphology signifies the deepest continuous inline within a valley or watercourse system.
Thalweg (; "valley way") in geography and fluvial geomorphology signifies the deepest continuous inline within a valley or watercourse system.
Till plain
A till plain is an extensive flat plain of glacial till that forms when a sheet of ice becomes detached from the main body of a glacier and melts in place depositing the sediments it carried.
A till plain is an extensive flat plain of glacial till that forms when a sheet of ice becomes detached from the main body of a glacier and melts in place depositing the sediments it carried.
Tinaja
Tinaja is a term used in the American Southwest for water pockets formed in bedrock depressions that occur below waterfalls or are carved out by spring flow or seepage.
Tinaja is a term used in the American Southwest for water pockets formed in bedrock depressions that occur below waterfalls or are carved out by spring flow or seepage.
Topography
Topography is a field of planetary science comprising the study of surface shape and features of the Earth and other observable astronomical objects including planets, moons, and asteroids.
Topography is a field of planetary science comprising the study of surface shape and features of the Earth and other observable astronomical objects including planets, moons, and asteroids.
Toreva block
A Toreva block landslide is a distinctive landslide type which may occur when a stronger material such as sandstone or limestone overlies a weaker material such as shale and an eroding agent und...
A Toreva block landslide is a distinctive landslide type which may occur when a stronger material such as sandstone or limestone overlies a weaker material such as shale and an eroding agent und...
Trough (geology)
In geology, a trough generally refers to a linear structural depression that extends laterally over a distance, while being less steep than a trench.
In geology, a trough generally refers to a linear structural depression that extends laterally over a distance, while being less steep than a trench.
Truncated spur
A truncated spur is a geologic formation created under specific conditions which result in a ridge of land with its end cut off.
A truncated spur is a geologic formation created under specific conditions which result in a ridge of land with its end cut off.
Unaweep Canyon
Unaweep Canyon is a geologically unique canyon that cuts across the Uncompahgre Plateau, Mesa County, in western Colorado.
Unaweep Canyon is a geologically unique canyon that cuts across the Uncompahgre Plateau, Mesa County, in western Colorado.
Valleuse
In the Pays de Caux, Normandy, France a valleuse is a depression in the land surface of the plateau which permits access to the sea.
In the Pays de Caux, Normandy, France a valleuse is a depression in the land surface of the plateau which permits access to the sea.
Vegetation and slope stability
Vegetation and slope stability are interrelated by the ability of the plant life growing on slopes to both promote and hinder the stability of the slope.
Vegetation and slope stability are interrelated by the ability of the plant life growing on slopes to both promote and hinder the stability of the slope.
Vein (geology)
In geology, a vein is a distinct sheetlike body of crystallized minerals within a rock.
In geology, a vein is a distinct sheetlike body of crystallized minerals within a rock.
Wash load
Wash load is the portion of sediment that is carried by a fluid flow, usually in a river, such that it always remains near the free surface.
Wash load is the portion of sediment that is carried by a fluid flow, usually in a river, such that it always remains near the free surface.
Wind erosion equation
A wind erosion equation is an equation used to design wind erosion control systems, which considers soil erodibility, soil roughness, climate, the unsheltered distance across a field, and the ve...
A wind erosion equation is an equation used to design wind erosion control systems, which considers soil erodibility, soil roughness, climate, the unsheltered distance across a field, and the ve...
Yazoo stream
A yazoo stream is a hydrologic term for any tributary stream that runs parallel to, and within the floodplain of, a larger river which the stream eventually joins.
A yazoo stream is a hydrologic term for any tributary stream that runs parallel to, and within the floodplain of, a larger river which the stream eventually joins.
Zero-curtain effect
The zero-curtain effect occurs in cold (particularly periglacial) environments where the phase change of water to ice is retarded due to latent heat release.
The zero-curtain effect occurs in cold (particularly periglacial) environments where the phase change of water to ice is retarded due to latent heat release.