Modern geomorphic concepts: A Review

Abstract

Geological geomorphology has been renamed to 'geophysical geomorphology' Geomorphic concepts including size, process–pattern linkages, hierarchy, variability, variety, sensitivity, equilibrium, connectedness, nonlinearity, and complexity are now being used to explain the evolutionary histories of landscapes/landforms. “These investigations have been given a new dimension by the human-induced change of the Earth's surface. In order to understand the spatiotemporal variability and evolutionary aspects of landscapes and landforms, current geomorphologic research studies both anthropogenic and natural variables simultaneously. This has also contributed to the concept of the 'critical zone', which is defined as the 'heterogeneous, near surface environment in which complex interactions involving rock, soil, water, air, and living species govern the natural habitat and determine the availability of life supporting resources'. The 'usage' of Earth's surface and 'critical zone' will only increase as human populations continue to rise at an exponential rate”. There will be increasing complexity in socio-environmental systems like major rivers as a result of human-induced perturbations in most surface settings.