Lecture 3 reading - geomorphology and earth system science

Question 1

define geomorphology

Answer 1

the study of the physical features to the surface of the earth and their relation to its geological structures

Question 2

define lithosphere

Answer 2

the rigid outer part of the earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle

Question 3

what are clastic sediments?

Answer 3

rocks composed of broken pieces of older rocks

Question 4

define orogen

Answer 4

a belt of the earths crust involved in the formation of mountains

Question 5

define mountain relief

Answer 5

the difference between the highest and the lowest elevations in an area

Question 6

are average and modal hill slope angles independent of erosion rate?

Answer 6

yes

Question 7

define topography

Answer 7

the arrangement of natural and artificial physical features of an area

Question 8

define soil creep

Answer 8

the slow downward movement of rock or soil down a low grade slope

Question 9

define equifinality

Answer 9

in open systems, a given end state can be reached by many potential means