ThinkRankLandforms and their Evolution
Overview
Landscape evolution is the result of erosional and depositional work by agents like water, wind, and ice. This chapter examines the specific landforms created by rivers, glaciers, groundwater, and more.
Learning Objectives
- Identify fluvial, glacial, and aeolian landforms
- Explain the cycle of erosion and landform maturity
- Describe the unique features of Karst topography
- Analyze the role of waves in coastal geomorphology
Key Concepts
Landscape Maturity
Landforms pass through youth, maturity, and old age stages. For example, a river in its youth carves deep V-shaped valleys, while in old age, it meanders through broad plains.
Karst Topography
Found in limestone regions, where groundwater dissolves rock to form caves, sinkholes, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Key Terms
MoraineMeanderOx-bow LakeCirqueDoline
Examples
Mississippi Delta
A classic example of a river's depositional landform at the end of its life cycle.
Quick Check
- What is a Cirque?
- How is an Ox-bow lake formed?