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    Geomorphology Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #53
    Geomorphology Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #53
    Geomorphology Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #53
    Ebook276 pages3 hours

    Geomorphology Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #53

    By Blake Pieck

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    About this ebook

    This dictionary delves into the study of landforms and the processes that shape them, offering detailed definitions and thorough explanations of essential terms and concepts in geomorphology. Uncover the dynamic forces, such as erosion, weathering, tectonics, and volcanic activity, that sculpt the planet's diverse landscapes. From mountains and valleys to rivers and deserts, this dictionary provides insights into the formation and evolution of various landforms.

    Whether you're a student, researcher, or geology enthusiast, this dictionary is an invaluable resource that enhances your understanding of the complex interactions between Earth's surface processes and the resulting landforms.

    Illuminate your knowledge of how our planet's physical features are formed and transformed with this essential guide to geomorphology.

     

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherBlake Pieck
    Release dateJun 5, 2024
    ISBN9798227655905
    Geomorphology Dictionary: Grow Your Vocabulary, #53

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      Geomorphology Dictionary - Blake Pieck

      Agricultural Geography Dictionary

      A

      Ablation   -   Geomorphology, Glacial Processes   -   Ablation refers to the processes by which ice and snow are removed from a glacier or ice sheet, primarily through melting, sublimation, or calving. Ablation is critical for understanding glacier mass balance and the contributions of glaciers to sea-level rise. 

      Abrasion   -   Geomorphology, Erosional Processes   -   Abrasion is the process of scraping or wearing away of the Earth’s surface by friction between rocks and moving particles during their transport by wind, water, or ice. This erosional process is significant in geomorphology for its role in shaping landscapes, smoothing rock surfaces, and creating various landforms. 

      Abyssal Gully   -   Geomorphology, Oceanic Landforms   -   An abyssal gully is a small, steep-sided valley on the ocean floor, often found on the continental slope. These gullies are formed by underwater erosion processes and are significant for understanding sediment transport in deep-sea environments. 

      Abyssal Hill   -   Geomorphology, Oceanic Landforms   -   An abyssal hill is a small, sediment-covered hill on the abyssal plain, formed by volcanic activity and tectonic processes. These hills are the most common landform on the Earth’s surface and are important for understanding the structure of ocean basins. 

      Abyssal Plain   -   Geomorphology, Oceanic Landforms   -   An abyssal plain is a flat, nearly level region of the deep ocean floor, usually at depths between 3,000 and 6,000 meters. These plains are among the flattest, smoothest, and least explored regions on Earth, formed by the settling of fine sediments from above and volcanic activity. 

      Abyssal Trough   -   Geomorphology, Oceanic Landforms   -   An abyssal trough is a deep, elongated depression on the ocean floor, often associated with subduction zones and tectonic activity. These troughs are critical for understanding plate tectonics and the structure of ocean basins. 

      Active Volcano   -   Geomorphology, Volcanic Landforms   -   An active volcano is one that has erupted recently or is expected to erupt in the near future. These volcanoes are significant for studying volcanic activity, hazards, and the formation of various volcanic landforms. 

      Aeolian Deflation   -   Geomorphology, Wind Processes   -   Aeolian deflation is the removal of loose, fine-grained particles by the wind, leading to the lowering of the land surface. This process creates features such as deflation hollows and desert pavements, important for understanding wind erosion dynamics. 

      Aeolian Desert   -   Geomorphology, Wind Landforms   -   An aeolian desert is a desert landscape dominated by wind-shaped features such as dunes, sand sheets, and deflation hollows. These deserts are significant for studying wind erosion, sediment transport, and the formation of desert landforms. 

      Aeolian Dune   -   Geomorphology, Wind Landforms   -   An aeolian dune is a mound or ridge of sand or other loose sediment formed by the wind, typically found in desert environments or coastal regions. These dunes are dynamic landforms that migrate over time due to wind action, providing insights into wind patterns and sediment transport. 

      Aeolian Loess   -   Geomorphology, Wind Landforms   -   Aeolian loess is a fine-grained, wind-deposited sediment that forms extensive blankets over large areas, often seen in the Great Plains and parts of China. This sediment is significant in geomorphology for its role in soil fertility and past climatic conditions. 

      Aeolian Processes   -   Geomorphology, Wind Processes   -   Aeolian processes are related to the action of the wind in shaping the landscape. This includes the transportation, deposition, and erosion of sediments, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Features formed by aeolian processes include dunes, loess deposits, and deflation hollows. 

      Aeolian Ridge   -   Geomorphology, Wind Landforms   -   An aeolian ridge is a landform created by the accumulation of wind-blown sand, forming elongated ridges parallel to the prevailing wind direction. These features are common in desert environments and provide insights into wind patterns and sediment transport. 

      Aeolian Saltation   -   Geomorphology, Wind Processes   -   Aeolian saltation refers to the process by which sand-sized particles are lifted by the wind and transported in a series of short jumps or hops. This process is fundamental in shaping desert landscapes and forming features such as dunes and sand sheets. 

      Aeolian Sediment   -   Geomorphology, Wind Processes   -   Aeolian sediment refers to particles transported and deposited by the wind, commonly found in desert environments. These sediments contribute to the formation of dunes, loess deposits, and other wind-shaped landforms. 

      Aeolian Silt   -   Geomorphology, Wind Processes   -   Aeolian silt is fine-grained sediment transported by wind, often forming loess deposits. These sediments are important for understanding wind transport mechanisms and the formation of fertile soils in regions such as the Great Plains and China. 

      Aerial Photography   -   Geomorphology, Geospatial Analysis   -   Aerial photography involves taking photographs from aircraft or other flying objects to study the Earth’s surface. This technique is vital in geomorphology for mapping landforms, monitoring changes, and conducting spatial analysis. 

      Aggraded Valley   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   An aggraded valley is one that has been filled with sediment, raising the valley floor. This occurs when sediment supply exceeds the capacity of the river to transport it, often due to climatic or human-induced changes, affecting river dynamics and landform development. 

      Alkali Flat   -   Geomorphology, Desert Landforms   -   An alkali flat, or playa, is a dry lakebed found in desert environments, characterized by the accumulation of evaporite minerals such as salt, gypsum, and borates. These flat, barren surfaces result from the evaporation of water from closed basin systems and are significant for studying evaporative processes. 

      Alluvial Aquifer   -   Geomorphology, Hydrological Features   -   An alluvial aquifer is an aquifer composed of unconsolidated sediments deposited by rivers, such as sand and gravel. These aquifers are crucial for understanding groundwater storage, flow, and the interaction between surface water and groundwater. 

      Alluvial Fan   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   An alluvial fan is a cone-shaped deposit of sediment crossed and built up by streams, typically found where a high-gradient stream flattens, slows, and spreads at the exit of a canyon onto a flatter plain. This geomorphological feature is formed by the deposition of material carried by the water as it loses velocity, often seen in arid and semi-arid regions. 

      Alluvial Gold   -   Geomorphology, Economic Geomorphology   -   Alluvial gold refers to gold particles found in river sediments, typically deposited by water flow. These deposits are significant for their economic value and for understanding sediment transport and placer mining techniques. 

      Alluvial Plain   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   An alluvial plain is a flat or gently sloping area formed by the deposition of sediment over a long period by one or more rivers. These plains are important agricultural areas due to their fertile soils and are key to understanding sedimentary processes. 

      Alluvial Terrace   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   An alluvial terrace is a flat or gently sloping bench or step that runs parallel to the river, representing a former floodplain that has been elevated relative to the current river level. These terraces are important for understanding river incision and sedimentation history. 

      Alluvium   -   Geomorphology, Sedimentary Processes   -   Alluvium refers to loose, unconsolidated soil or sediments that have been eroded, reshaped by water in some form, and redeposited in a non-marine setting. It is important in geomorphology for understanding sediment transport and deposition in river valleys and floodplains. 

      Alpine Fault   -   Geomorphology, Tectonic Features   -   The Alpine Fault is a major geological fault in New Zealand, marking the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the Indo-Australian Plate. It is significant for studying tectonic processes, earthquake activity, and mountain building in the region. 

      Alpine Glacier   -   Geomorphology, Glacial Landforms   -   An alpine glacier is a glacier that forms in mountainous regions and flows down valleys. These glaciers carve out U-shaped valleys and other glacial landforms, providing evidence of past and present glacial activity and climate change. 

      Andean Orogeny   -   Geomorphology, Tectonic Processes   -   The Andean orogeny refers to the series of tectonic events that formed the Andes mountain range through subduction of the oceanic Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate. This process is significant for studying mountain building and tectonic activity. 

      Andesite   -   Geomorphology, Volcanic Landforms   -   Andesite is an extrusive igneous rock with intermediate silica content, commonly found in volcanic regions associated with subduction zones. It forms part of volcanic landscapes and provides information on volcanic activity and magma composition. 

      Andesite Lava Flow   -   Geomorphology, Volcanic Landforms   -   An andesite lava flow is a type of volcanic flow composed of intermediate silica content lava, typically found in volcanic arcs associated with subduction zones. These flows shape the landscape around volcanoes and provide insights into volcanic activity. 

      Antarctic Desert   -   Geomorphology, Polar Landforms   -   The Antarctic Desert is the coldest, windiest, and driest desert on Earth, covering the continent of Antarctica. It is a polar desert with unique geomorphological features formed by ice, wind, and minimal precipitation, providing insights into extreme cold desert processes. 

      Antarctic Ice Sheet   -   Geomorphology, Glacial Landforms   -   The Antarctic Ice Sheet is the largest single mass of ice on Earth, covering the continent of Antarctica. It plays a crucial role in global climate and sea-level regulation and provides valuable data on past climate conditions through ice core studies. 

      Antarctic Peninsula   -   Geomorphology, Polar Landforms   -   The Antarctic Peninsula is the northernmost part of the mainland of Antarctica, featuring a rugged, mountainous landscape shaped by glacial and tectonic processes. It is significant for studying polar climate, glaciation, and geological history. 

      Antarctic Subglacial Lake   -   Geomorphology, Glacial Landforms   -   An Antarctic subglacial lake is a lake located beneath the Antarctic ice sheet, formed by geothermal heat and pressure. These lakes are significant for studying ice sheet dynamics, microbial life, and climate history. 

      Anthropogenic Landform   -   Geomorphology, Human-Modified Landforms   -   Anthropogenic landforms are those created or significantly altered by human activities, such as mining, agriculture, and urban development. These landforms are crucial for understanding the impact of human activities on the Earth’s surface. 

      Anticline   -   Geomorphology, Structural Landforms   -   An anticline is a type of fold that is arch-like and has its oldest beds at its core. It is a structural feature caused by compressional forces, leading to the upwarping of the Earth’s crust. Anticlines can form mountains or ridges and are significant in geomorphology for indicating past tectonic activities. 

      Aquiclude   -   Geomorphology, Hydrological Features   -   An aquiclude is a geological formation that is impermeable to water, acting as a barrier to groundwater flow. It is significant in understanding subsurface water dynamics and the distribution of aquifers. 

      Aquifer   -   Geomorphology, Hydrological Features   -   An aquifer is a body of permeable rock that can contain or transmit groundwater. It plays a critical role in the hydrological cycle by storing and providing water for springs, wells, and rivers. Aquifers are essential in geomorphology for understanding subsurface water flow and the impacts on surface landforms. 

      Arch   -   Geomorphology, Erosional Landforms   -   An arch is a natural rock formation where a rock arch forms with an opening underneath, typically formed by erosional processes such as weathering and water erosion. These structures are often found in arid regions and are notable for their aesthetic and geological importance. 

      Arctic Circle   -   Geomorphology, Polar Regions   -   The Arctic Circle is one of the major circles of latitude that marks the boundary of the Arctic region. Geomorphologically, this region includes unique features such as permafrost, ice caps, and tundra landscapes, shaped by extreme cold and seasonal variations. 

      Arctic Desert   -   Geomorphology, Polar Landforms   -   An Arctic desert is a cold desert located within the Arctic Circle, characterized by low precipitation, extreme cold, and limited vegetation. These deserts feature unique landforms shaped by permafrost, glaciation, and minimal water flow. 

      Arenaceous Rock   -   Geomorphology, Sedimentary Landforms   -   Arenaceous rock is a type of sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized particles, such as sandstone. These rocks are important for understanding sedimentary processes and the environments in which they were deposited. 

      Arenite   -   Geomorphology, Sedimentary Landforms   -   Arenite is a type of sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized particles, often referred to as sandstone. This rock type provides insights into sedimentary environments and processes of deposition. 

      Arête   -   Geomorphology, Glacial Landforms   -   An arête is a narrow ridge of rock which is typically formed when two glaciers erode parallel U-shaped valleys. The arête is a sharp ridge that remains when the glaciers erode the sides of the ridges, leaving the rock formation. It is a common feature in mountainous glacial landscapes and indicates the past presence of glaciers. 

      Arid Climate   -   Geomorphology, Climatic Landforms   -   An arid climate is characterized by low precipitation, high evaporation rates, and sparse vegetation. This climate influences the formation of unique landforms such as deserts, dunes, and dry riverbeds, providing insights into climate-landform interactions. 

      Arid Land   -   Geomorphology, Climatic Landforms   -   Arid land refers to regions with extremely low rainfall, resulting in minimal vegetation cover and unique landforms such as deserts, sand dunes, and rocky plateaus. These areas are important for studying desertification, erosion, and climate impact on landscapes. 

      Arid Region   -   Geomorphology, Climatic Landforms   -   An arid region is an area characterized by a severe lack of available water, limiting the growth of vegetation. These regions feature unique landforms such as dunes, playas, and rocky plateaus, shaped by wind and occasional water flow. 

      Aridisol   -   Geomorphology, Soil Landforms   -   Aridisol is a soil order characterized by being dry most of the year, typically found in desert regions. These soils are significant in geomorphology for studying soil formation processes in arid environments and their impact on landform development. 

      Arroyo   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   An arroyo is a dry creek or stream bed that temporarily or seasonally fills and flows after sufficient rain. Found primarily in arid and semi-arid regions, arroyos are significant for understanding episodic water flow and erosion in desert landscapes. 

      Atoll   -   Geomorphology, Coral Landforms   -   An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef, island, or series of islets that encircle a lagoon, partially or completely. Atolls form from the growth of coral reefs around a sinking volcanic island and are significant in studying coral reef development and sea-level changes. 

      Avalanche   -   Geomorphology, Mass Wasting   -   An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, often triggered by changes in weather or disturbances. This mass wasting process can reshape mountain landscapes, depositing large amounts of snow and debris at the base of slopes and impacting vegetation and ecosystems. 

      B

      Back-Arc Basin   -   Geomorphology, Tectonic Landforms   -   A back-arc basin is a submarine basin located behind a volcanic arc, formed by extensional tectonics associated with subduction zones. These basins are important for understanding plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and ocean basin formation. 

      Back-Barrier Lagoon   -   Geomorphology, Coastal Landforms   -   A back-barrier lagoon is a shallow body of water separated from the open sea by a barrier island or spit. These lagoons are significant for studying coastal sedimentation, water circulation, and habitat diversity. 

      Backswamp   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   A backswamp is a low-lying area on a floodplain, typically located behind natural levees, that collects water and sediment during floods. These areas are important for flood management and sediment deposition studies. 

      Backwash   -   Geomorphology, Coastal Processes   -   Backwash is the flow of water returning to the sea after a wave has broken on the shore. This process is important for understanding sediment transport, beach morphology, and coastal erosion. 

      Bajada   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Landforms   -   A bajada is a broad, gently sloping depositional surface formed by the coalescence of several alluvial fans. These features are common in arid and semi-arid regions and are important for understanding sediment transport and deposition in desert environments. 

      Bank Caving   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Processes   -   Bank caving is the collapse of riverbanks into the water due to undercutting by flowing water. This process is significant for understanding river erosion, sediment transport, and channel morphology. 

      Bank Erosion   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Processes   -   Bank erosion is the wearing away of riverbanks by the flow of water, often leading to the collapse of the bank material into the river. This process is critical for studying river channel changes and sediment transport. 

      Bankfull Discharge   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Processes   -   Bankfull discharge is the flow level at which a river fills its channel to the top of its banks, often leading to flooding. This discharge is critical for understanding floodplain formation, sediment transport, and river dynamics. 

      Bankfull Stage   -   Geomorphology, Fluvial Processes   -   The bankfull stage is the level at which a river fills its channel to the point of overflowing. This stage is crucial for understanding floodplain formation, sediment transport, and river dynamics. 

      Bar   -   Geomorphology, Coastal Landforms   -   A bar is a submerged or exposed ridge of sand or gravel formed by wave action, tidal currents, or river flow. Bars can form in river mouths, estuaries, and along coastlines, affecting navigation and sediment distribution. 

      Barchan Dune   -   Geomorphology, Wind Landforms   -   A barchan dune is a crescent-shaped dune with horns pointing downwind, formed in areas with limited sand supply and unidirectional winds. These dunes are important for studying wind patterns and desert landscapes. 

      Barrier Flat   -   Geomorphology, Coastal Landforms   -   A barrier flat is a low-lying area behind a barrier island, often composed of sand or mud deposits. These flats are important for studying coastal sedimentation, habitat creation, and sea-level changes. 

      Barrier Island   -   Geomorphology, Coastal Landforms   -   A barrier island is a long, narrow island lying parallel

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