FAQs on Audio Notes: Geomorphology Video Lecture - Geography for UPSC CSE
1. What is geomorphology and why is it important in the study of Earth sciences? |
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Ans. Geomorphology is the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them. It examines the origin, evolution, and classification of various landforms, such as mountains, valleys, rivers, and deserts. Understanding geomorphology is crucial in Earth sciences because it helps explain how landscapes are formed and modified by natural forces, such as erosion, sedimentation, and tectonic activity. This knowledge is essential for environmental planning, natural hazard assessment, and resource management.
2. What are the main processes involved in geomorphological changes? |
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Ans. The main processes involved in geomorphological changes include weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition. Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller particles through physical, chemical, or biological means. Erosion involves the removal of these particles by natural agents like water, wind, and ice. Transportation refers to the movement of eroded materials, while deposition occurs when these materials settle in a new location, forming new landforms such as deltas or alluvial plains.
3. How do human activities impact geomorphological processes? |
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Ans. Human activities significantly impact geomorphological processes through urbanization, deforestation, mining, and agriculture. Urbanization leads to changes in land use and increased runoff, which can accelerate erosion and alter drainage patterns. Deforestation removes vegetation that stabilizes soil, increasing susceptibility to erosion. Mining disrupts natural landforms and can lead to sedimentation in nearby water bodies. Agriculture can modify landscapes through practices like plowing, which affects soil structure and erosion rates.
4. What role do climatic factors play in geomorphological processes? |
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Ans. Climatic factors, such as temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns, play a vital role in geomorphological processes. For instance, areas with high rainfall are often subject to intense erosion and sediment transport due to increased water flow. In contrast, arid regions may experience different landform development due to limited vegetation and higher rates of weathering. Climate change can also influence geomorphological processes by altering weather patterns, leading to increased flooding or drought, which subsequently affects erosion and sedimentation rates.
5. What are some common landforms studied in geomorphology? |
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Ans. Common landforms studied in geomorphology include mountains, valleys, plateaus, hills, plains, deserts, and coastal features. Each landform has unique characteristics shaped by various geomorphological processes. For example, mountains often result from tectonic forces, while valleys may form through erosion by rivers or glaciers. Coastal landforms, such as beaches and cliffs, are shaped by the action of waves and tides. Understanding these landforms helps scientists assess environmental changes and their implications for ecosystems and human activities.