Geomorphic Processes — Chapter Summary

External forces act on the earth’s

External forces act on the earth’s surface and are driven basically by energy from sunlight and the atmosphere. They cause degradation of relief and a

Internal forces originate within the earth

Internal forces originate within the earth. Their energy comes mainly from radioactivity, rotational and tidal friction, and primordial heat.

Diastrophism includes all endogenic processes

Diastrophism includes all endogenic processes that move, elevate, or build up parts of the earth’s crust. It includes orogenic processes, epeirogenic

Volcanism is the movement of molten

Volcanism is the movement of molten rock onto or toward the earth’s surface, forming intrusive and extrusive volcanic forms.

Weathering is the mechanical disintegration

Weathering is the mechanical disintegration and chemical decomposition of rocks by elements of weather and climate. It happens in place with little or