Geography - Geology, Landscapes, and Processes Review

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on geology concepts, rock types, earth processes, landscape formation, weathering, erosion, and human geography trends.

Geology

The study of the Earth's origin, structure, composition, and physical processes, including the study of rocks and landforms.

Sedimentary Rock

A type of rock formed over millions of years by the compaction and cementation of layers of sediment or dead sea creatures.

Strata

The distinct horizontal layers formed in sedimentary rocks.

Igneous Rock

A resistant type of rock formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock (magma or lava).

Intrusive Igneous Rock

Igneous rock formed underground where magma cools slowly, resulting in large crystal formation (e.g., granite).

Extrusive Igneous Rock

Igneous rock formed above the surface where lava cools rapidly, resulting in small crystal formation.

Metamorphic Rock

A rock type formed when existing sedimentary or igneous rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure.

Slate

A metamorphic rock formed from shale subjected to heat and pressure, characterized by layered crystals.

Marble

A metamorphic rock containing squashed fossils, originally formed from limestone exposed to intense heat or pressure.

Earth's Crust

The outer layer of the Earth, broken up into major pieces called tectonic plates.

UK Highland Landscapes

Upland landscapes created by hard, resistant igneous and metamorphic rocks formed through past tectonic and volcanic activity.

UK Lowland Landscapes

Low-elevation landscapes formed largely by softer sedimentary rocks and deposits left by ice age processes.

Weathering vs. Erosion

Weathering is the breakdown of rock in situ (in place), whereas erosion involves the wearing away and removal of rock materials.

Three Types of Weathering

The three main categories of rock breakdown in place: physical (mechanical), chemical, and biological weathering.

Four Processes of Erosion

The key mechanisms that wear away rock: hydraulic action, abrasion, attrition, and solution.

Four Processes of Transportation

The methods by which eroded material is moved: traction, saltation, suspension, and solution.

Deposition

The process where transported sediment is dropped or laid down when the transporting medium loses energy.

Mass Movement

The downhill movement of rock, soil, or sediment under the force of gravity, such as slumping and sliding.

Slumping and Sliding

Forms of mass movement where rock or soil moves downhill; slumping occurs along a curved failure surface, while sliding occurs along a flat plane.

Globalisation

The process where cities become part of a world market and manufacturing firms relocate to other countries to make products cheaper.

Deindustrialisation

The decline of industrial activity, such as car or metal manufacturing, leading to factory closures, job losses, and a shift to a service economy.