280333 VO Geomorphology (2006W)

ECTS: 1,4
The surface of the Earth is the dynamic interface between geo-, hydro, bio- and atmosphere. The resulting multitude of interacting processes explains the observation, that the Earth exhibits a much higher variety of different landforms than any other planet of our solar system. Basically, the involved processes are classified into 2 groups by their main driving forces. Endogenic processes (e.g. plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanism, etc.) are mainly driven by the radioactive heat from the Earth interior, while exogenic processes (e.g. weathering, erosion, etc.) are mainly controlled by the solar energy.
Apparently, geomorphology benefits from an interdisciplinary approach. This lecture represents an introduction into geomorphology and the main geomorphological processes, which shape different landscapes. The classification, formation and properties of various landforms, as well as their impact on society are discussed.