Copyright all photos: Michiel C J Damen

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Geomorphology

Geomorphology is the study of landforms, their processes, form and sediments at the surface of the earth.

Earth surface processes, such as air, water and ice, can mould the landscape. Different climatic environments produce different types of landforms.

Geomorphologists map the distribution of these landforms so as to understand better their occurrence.

In recent years, Earth observation has become more and more sophisticated with the development of air- and space-borne remote-sensing systems, including 3-D visualization.

surface processes, such as air, water and ice, can mould the landscape. Different climatic environments produce also different types of landforms.

The earth is shaped by many different Geological processes.  Processes that are caused by forces from within the earth are called Endogenous processes. And Exogenous processes come from forces on or above theEarth’s surface.

It is essential for good quality geomorphological mapping to collect sufficient data in the field and in the office.

Field data to be collected include:

- Lithology / rock type
- Soil type
- Surface characteristics such as slope steepness slope form and   slope length
- Surface processes such as erosion & sedimentation
- Landcover and agricultural land use

Office data to be collected:

- Recent and old topographical maps
- Thematic maps of geology, soil, geomorphology,  landuse, etc.
- Multi temporal Remote sensing data
- Reports / articles
Further information:

Examples of Endogenous, or mountain building processes are volcanic activity and uplift and folding of rocks.

Examples of Exogenous forces, or denudation are weathering and erosion of rock and transport and deposition by wind, water and glacier ice.

 

Example of applied geomorphological map

Geomorphological image interpretation of landslides using color aerial photographs. Carpathian mountains, Romania. Interpretation: M. Damen.

 

Balta landslide Carpathian mountains, Romania

Color aerial photograaph