Geomorphology

The word “geomorphology” is derived from the Greek roots geo (Earth), morphos (shape), and logos (study). Thus, geomorphology is the study of the shape of the Earth’s surface. Schumm (1991) defines geomorphology as the science of phenomena on or near the earth’s surface and the interactions between different types of materials and processes, including solids, liquids and gases. The effects of human activity are often crucial. Some authors consider geomorphology to be one of the most difficult physical sciences (Linton, 1964). Some authors restrict geomorphology to the study of the characteristics of sub-aerial topography but others extend it to the morphology of the ocean floors. Geomorphology also includes the investigation of landforms on other planets; this science is called planetary or extraterrestrial geomorphology (Greeley, 1985; Baker, 1981a; 1993, 2001, 2004a).
Endogenetic and exogenetic forces shape the topography of the earth’s surface. Endogenetic forces create high elevations and deep depressions primarily by vertical movement (Teixell et al., 2009). Exogenetic forces continuously denude and wear down the existing topography. This constant battle, which occurs at many scales, has continued throughout the Earth’s history. The processes of external dynamics can be categorized as weathering-erosion, transport and sedimentation. The results are groups of erosional and depositional landforms that typically show specific characteristics related to the processes operating in various morphogenetic environments as the various climatic belts oscillate between the Poles and the Equator, which explains the enigmatic relict shapes in many regions (Cotton, 1958). The energy necessary for these processes comes from various sources. Solar radiation reaches the Earth’s surface and is partially transformed into heat, which is the principal source of meteorological processes. These processes control weathering, pedology, the development of landform, as well as plant and animal life. In addition to solar radiation, gravitational energy causes sediment transport and mass movements on hillsides, etc. Endogenetic energy creates most of the topography of the Earth’s surface (Büdel, 1968, 1977). <...>