PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY-1

This course is part of the Earth Science elective courses for the Environmental Science degree. The course aims to provide an overview of active processes on the Earth's surface and how they are affected by climate change. The specific objective of the course is to provide basic knowledge regarding the study of Earth surface processes.

By the end of the course, the student will have learned about the forms and processes active on the Earth's surface, and how these may vary at different time scales. The student will learn the cause/effect links between morphology and processes and the effect of human interventions on the natural geomorphological balance.

The course requires a general knowledge of geology, geography, cartography, and basics of chemistry and physics.

The course follows the structure of the book “Key Concepts in Geomorphology” by Paul R. Bierman and David R. Montgomery, published by Freeman & C. Each lecture spans approximately two 2-hours classes. It is not necessary to purchase the book to follow the course and take the exam. Slides will be given by the teacher.

The geomorphology course offers a comprehensive overview of the processes and forms that characterize our terrestrial landscape. In the initial sessions, we will delve into the foundations of this discipline, examining the relationship between the geosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, and uncovering the essential tools used by geomorphologists. Subsequently, we will explore weathering and the importance of soils in shaping our environment. We will analyze the physical and chemical processes that influence rock transformation and the crucial role of soils in landscape formation.

In the following lessons, we will delve into hydrology, studying the various forms of water on Earth, from precipitation to groundwater and surface water, examining their implications for landscape formation. We will then examine slopes and landslide phenomena, understanding the materials that compose them, the processes that influence them, and the implications of such phenomena for the stability of the terrain, with a particular focus on the Vajont tragedy.

We will also discover the importance of fluvial channels and hydrographic basins in landscape shaping, examining fluvial processes, sediment transport, and the morphological evolution of channels and basins.nNext, we will explore coastal morphology, examining the different types of coasts, beaches, and coral reefs, and understanding the factors that determine their shape. We will then delve into glacial and periglacial environments, studying glaciers, landforms, and deposits associated with these environments, as well as wind processes and their impact on landscape morphology.

Finally, we will analyze the link between geomorphology and climate, exploring historical records of climate change, climatic cycles, and their influences on the shape of our terrestrial environment.

"Key Concepts in Geomorphology" by Paul R. Bierman and David R. Montgomery, published by Freeman & C (2021)
Slides and supplementary materials provided by the teacher

The student will be required to prepare all topics covered in the course for a written test. The test will include 33 open-ended questions. Sample tests will be provided to students.
To enter the written test, the student must turn in the results of the lab exercise. The lab grade will count 1/3 of the grade on the written test.

Lectures and in-depth study with materials provided by the lecturer

Italian

written

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Climate change and energy" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development