Basics of Geomorphology

"As Geomorphology has matured as a discipline, so it has developed a range of concepts which are fundamental for understanding it. This book, written by two leading geomorphologists, provides a very welcome first attempt to explain the major concepts in a concise and accessible way." - Andrew Goudie, University of Oxford "I can think of no better guides than Professors Ken Gregory and John Lewin to lead the reader through the conceptual basis of this exciting science...I highly recommend this book to those wishing for an up-to-date introductory overview of this rapidly changing science that is so critical to preserving the continuing habitability of our planet." - Victor R. Baker, University of Arizona "This book provides a very accessible overview of the discipline of geomorphology that is well supported by web-based material. The text is up-to-date, with excellent reference to relevant literature, and presents the discipline in an interesting and novel way. It provides a very readable and informative introduction to the discipline for senior undergraduates, postgraduates and researchers approaching the subject from other areas of science." - Angela Gurnell, Queen Mary University of London "Gregory and Lewin have managed the difficult but important task of distilling a new set of 'basics' that both broadens and complements traditional ideas. This book is remarkable in the way that it acknowledges a wonderful plurality of conceptual frameworks and approaches, and explains them in a clear, engaging way. Time will tell, but this book may well mark a turning point in the way students and scientists alike perceive Earth surface processes and landforms." - Jonathan Phillips, University of Kentucky This student focused book provides a detailed description and analysis of the key concepts, ideas, and hypotheses that inform geomorphology. Kenneth Gregory and John Lewin explain the basics of landform science in 20 concepts, each the subject of a substantive, cross-referenced entry. They use the idea of the 'geomorphic system' to organise entries in four sections, with extensive web resources provided for each: *System Contexts: The Systems Approach / Uniformitarianism / Landform / Form, Process and Materials / Equilibrium / Complexity and Non Linear Dynamical Systems *System Functioning: Cycles and cascades / Force-Resistance / Geomorphic work / Process Form Models *System Adjustments: Timescales / Forcings / Change Trajectories / Inheritance and Sensitivity / Anthropocene *Drivers for the Future: Geomorphic Hazards / Geomorphic Engineering / Design and Prediction Aligned with the teaching literature, this innovative text provides a fully-functioning learning environment for study, revision, and even self-directed research for both undergraduate and postgraduate students of geomorphology.