Introduction:
Physical geography is a branch of geography that studies the natural features and processes of the Earth's surface. It encompasses a wide range of topics that explain the physical characteristics and phenomena of the planet. The syllabus of physical geography for UPSC covers various key areas that are important to understand the Earth's physical environment and its impact on human activities.

Major Topics Covered:

1. Earth's Structure and Composition:
- Layers of the Earth
- Plate tectonics and continental drift
- Earthquakes and volcanoes
- Rocks and minerals

2. Landforms and their Evolution:
- Mountains, plains, plateaus, and valleys
- Weathering, erosion, and deposition
- Fluvial, glacial, and coastal landforms
- Karst topography and caves

3. Climatology:
- Atmospheric circulation and global wind patterns
- Climate zones and types
- Factors influencing climate (latitude, altitude, ocean currents, etc.)
- Climate change and its impacts

4. Biogeography:
- Ecosystems and biomes
- Biodiversity and conservation
- Forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands
- Human impacts on the environment

5. Hydrology:
- Water cycle and its components
- Rivers, lakes, and groundwater
- Floods, droughts, and water management
- Water pollution and its mitigation

6. Soil and Agriculture:
- Soil formation and properties
- Soil erosion and conservation
- Agricultural practices and their impact on the environment
- Land degradation and desertification

7. Geographical Information System (GIS):
- Basics of GIS and remote sensing
- Applications of GIS in physical geography
- Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
- Mapping and spatial analysis techniques

8. Natural Hazards and Disasters:
- Types of natural hazards (floods, cyclones, earthquakes, etc.)
- Disaster management and risk reduction
- Early warning systems and emergency preparedness
- Social and economic impacts of natural disasters

9. Environmental Geography:
- Environmental degradation and pollution
- Sustainable development and resource management
- Environmental policies and international agreements
- Urbanization and urban environmental issues

10. Geomorphology:
- Processes shaping the Earth's surface
- Landforms and their classification
- Geomorphological mapping and analysis
- Geomorphic hazards and mitigation strategies

Conclusion:
The syllabus of physical geography for UPSC covers a wide range of topics that help in understanding the Earth's physical environment and its interaction with human activities. From the structure of the Earth to natural hazards and environmental issues, these topics provide a comprehensive understanding of the physical aspects of geography and their significance for sustainable development and resource management.