Physical geography (also know as geosystems or physiography) is a subfield of geography that focuses on the systematic study of patterns and processes within the hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. It aims to understand the physical layout of the Earth, its weather and global flora and fauna patterns. Many areas of physical geography make use of geology, particularly in the study of weathering and erosion. The geology of other planets is discussed at geological features of the solar system.
Physical geography as a scientific discipline is usually contrasted with and complemented by its sister science human geography.
Areas of study
Geomorphology
Hydrology
Glaciology
Biogeography
Climatology
Pedology
Coastal/Marine studies
Oceanography
Geodesy
Palaeogeography
Environmental geography
Landscape ecology
External links
- Physiography by T.X. Huxley, 1878, full text, physical geography of the Thames River Basin
- Fundamentals of Physical Geography, 2nd Edition, by M. Pidwirny, 2006, full text