FAQs on Fundamentals of Physical Geography: Geomorphic Processes Video Lecture - NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC
1. What are the main types of geomorphic processes? |
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Ans. The main types of geomorphic processes are weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition. Weathering refers to the breakdown of rocks and minerals on or near the Earth's surface. Erosion involves the removal and transportation of weathered materials by agents such as water, wind, ice, or gravity. Transportation refers to the movement of eroded materials from one place to another. Deposition occurs when transported materials are laid down or deposited by agents of erosion.
2. How does weathering contribute to geomorphic processes? |
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Ans. Weathering is a fundamental geomorphic process that contributes to the breakdown of rocks and minerals. It can occur through physical, chemical, or biological means. Physical weathering involves the mechanical breakdown of rocks through processes such as freeze-thaw action, abrasion, or exfoliation. Chemical weathering involves the alteration of rocks through chemical reactions, such as oxidation or dissolution. Biological weathering occurs when living organisms, such as plants or burrowing animals, contribute to the breakdown of rocks. Overall, weathering plays a crucial role in shaping landscapes by weakening and disaggregating rocks, making them more susceptible to erosion.
3. What are the agents of erosion in geomorphic processes? |
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Ans. The agents of erosion in geomorphic processes can be classified into several categories, including water, wind, ice, and gravity. Water erosion is primarily caused by rivers, streams, and rainfall, which can carry away and transport sediment from one place to another. Wind erosion occurs in arid or semi-arid regions, where strong winds can pick up and transport loose particles, leading to the formation of features such as sand dunes. Glacial erosion is a result of the movement of glaciers, which can carve out valleys, create U-shaped valleys, and deposit moraines. Gravity erosion, also known as mass wasting, includes processes such as landslides, rockfalls, and soil creep.
4. How does transportation contribute to geomorphic processes? |
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Ans. Transportation is a crucial aspect of geomorphic processes as it involves the movement of eroded materials from one place to another. It allows for the redistribution of sediments, shaping landscapes over time. For example, rivers and streams transport sediment downstream, depositing them in deltas or floodplains. Wind can transport fine particles, such as sand or dust, over long distances, leading to the formation of sand dunes or loess deposits. Glaciers carry rocks and debris, which can be deposited as moraines when the glacier retreats. Transportation plays a significant role in the overall shaping and evolution of landforms.
5. What is the significance of deposition in geomorphic processes? |
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Ans. Deposition is a crucial geomorphic process that occurs when transported materials are laid down or deposited by agents of erosion. It plays a significant role in the formation of various landforms and contributes to landscape evolution. For example, sediment deposition in rivers can lead to the formation of river deltas, where fertile soils are created. Deposition by wind can result in the accumulation of sand dunes or loess deposits. Glacial deposition contributes to the formation of moraines, which can help identify past glacial activity. Overall, deposition helps shape the Earth's surface and contributes to the development of diverse landforms.