Physical Geography 12 - Geomorphology and Weather Unit Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to physical geography, geomorphology, and weather phenomena.

Geomorphological processes

Processes that shape the earth's crust countering diastrophism, orogeny, and volcanism.

Denudation

The process of wearing down the crust by agents like water, wind, ice, or biological organisms.

Weathering

The disintegration or decomposition of crustal rocks through physical, chemical, or differential actions.

Physical weathering

The disintegration of rock into smaller pieces without changing its chemical structure.

Frost shattering

The process where water seeps into the cracks of rocks and expands when frozen, causing the rock to break apart.

Exfoliation

The process where deep rocks, like granite, are exposed to the surface, releasing pressure and causing cracks.

Abrasion

A form of physical weathering where particles scrape and grind against each other.

Hydrolysis

A chemical weathering process involving the interaction of water with rock minerals, leading to the formation of clay minerals.

Solution

Chemical weathering when CO2 dissolves in rainwater, forming a weak solution of carbonic acid that reacts with soluble minerals.

Oxidation

A chemical reaction where oxygen interacts with iron, leading to the formation of rust-like substances in rocks.

Erosion

The removal and movement of weathered material by agents of denudation.

Aggradation

The process of deposition where weathered material is dropped off and builds up the Earth's surface.

Climate

Long-term atmospheric conditions and trends, distinguished from day-to-day weather.

Köppen Classification System

A system for classifying climates based on temperature, precipitation, and natural vegetation.

Orographic rainfall

Rain that occurs when moist air is forced to rise over a physical barrier, leading to dry conditions on the leeward side.

Convectional rainfall

Rainfall caused by the heating of the ground which warms the air above, causing it to rise and cool rapidly.

Frontal rainfall

Occurs when two air masses with differing temperatures and moisture levels meet, causing precipitation.

Air mass

A large parcel of air in the lower troposphere with consistent temperature and humidity characteristics.

Tornado

A localized, violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground.

Hurricane

A tropical storm system characterized by a low-pressure center, strong winds, and heavy rains.