FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY uses the combined expertise of three respected geographers to show how Earth's physical geography impacts humans, and how humans impact Earth's physical geography. The text emphasizes three essential themes to demonstrate the major roles for the discipline—Geography from a Physical Science perspective, Geography from a Spatial perspective, and Geography from an Environmental perspective. With a focus on examining relationships and processes among Earth systems, this text helps students understand like never before how the various systems interrelate and how humans are an integral aspect of geography. The human-environment relationship and the importance of conservation are prevalent themes. This new title offers thorough coverage of physical geography in a concise, well-organized structure, making it feasible to cover all topics in a one-semester course, and approachable for all students, especially those who are new to the concepts presented herein.

1. Physical Geography: Earth Systems and Environments.
2. Representations of Earth.
3. Earth-Sun Relationships and Energy Systems.
4. Atmosphere, Pressure, Winds, and Circulation.
5. Humidity, Condensation, and Precipitation.
6. Air Masses and Weather Systems.
7. Climate Classification; Tropical, Arid, and Mesothermal Climate Regions.
8. Microthermal, Polar, and Highland Climate Regions; Climate Change.
9. Biography and Soils.
10. Earth Materials and Plate Tectonics.
11. Volcanism and Tectonism.
12. Weathering and Mass Wasting.
13. Water Resources and Karst.
14. Stream Systems.
15. Arid Region Landforms and Eolian Systems.
16. Glacial Systems.
17. Coastal Systems.
Appendix A. SI Unit Conversions.
Appendix B. Maps and Imagery.
Appendix C. Climate Classification.
Appendix D. Soils.
Appendix E. Common Rocks.
Glossary.
Index.