Chapter 5: Geomorphic Processes

Geography - Fundamental of Physical Geography • Class 11

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate9 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'Geomorphic Processes' from the NCERT class 11 Geography textbook explores the different processes that shape the Earth's surface. These processes are classified into endogenic (originating within the Earth) and exogenic (originating from external forces like water, ice, and wind). The chapter details the role of weathering, mass wasting, erosion, and deposition in landform development. It explains how these processes are influenced by various factors, including climate and human activities, and highlights their significance in shaping the Earth's topography.

Key Topics

  • Endogenic processes
  • Exogenic processes
  • Weathering
  • Mass wasting
  • Erosion
  • Deposition
  • Soil formation
  • Geomorphic agents

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the difference between endogenic and exogenic geomorphic processes.
  • Describe the role of weathering in soil formation and landscape alteration.
  • Identify the major geomorphic agents and their impact on the Earth's surface.
  • Explain the interactions between climatic factors and geomorphic processes.
  • Evaluate the effects of human activities on geomorphic processes.

Questions in Chapter

Which one of the following processes is a gradational process? (a) Deposition (b) Diastrophism (c) Volcanism (d) Erosion

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Which one of the following materials is affected by hydration process? (a) Granite (b) Clay (c) Quartz (d) Salts

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Debris avalanche can be included in the category of: (a) Landslides (b) Slow flow mass movements (c) Rapid flow mass movements (d) Subsidence

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It is weathering that is responsible for bio-diversity on the earth. How?

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What are mass movements that are real rapid and perceptible? List.

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What are the various mobile and mighty exogenic geomorphic agents and what is the prime job they perform?

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Is weathering essential as a pre-requisite in the formation of soils? Why?

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“Our earth is a playfield for two opposing groups of geomorphic processes.” Discuss.

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Exogenic geomorphic processes derive their ultimate energy from the sun’s heat. Explain.

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Additional Practice Questions

What are the main differences between endogenic and exogenic processes?

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Answer: Endogenic processes originate from within the Earth and include diastrophism and volcanism. They are responsible for building up the Earth's surface. Exogenic processes, on the other hand, originate from external forces like water, ice, and wind, and are primarily involved in wearing down the Earth's surface.

Explain the impact of climate on weathering.

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Answer: Climate influences the rate and type of weathering processes. In humid tropical regions, chemical weathering is prevalent due to high temperatures and rainfall which enhance chemical reactions. In contrast, in arid climates, physical weathering is more common due to temperature extremes.

How do human activities accelerate geomorphic processes?

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Answer: Human activities like deforestation, mining, and construction accelerate geomorphic processes by destabilizing the soil, which increases erosion and mass movements. They also alter natural water flow, causing changes in deposition patterns.

What role does gravity play in geomorphic processes?

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Answer: Gravity is crucial for geomorphic processes as it drives the downslope movement of materials, resulting in mass wasting. It causes stresses that contribute to the erosion and transportation of debris by geomorphic agents.

Discuss the formation of soil and the factors that affect it.

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Answer: Soil formation, or pedogenesis, is influenced by factors including parent material, topography, climate, biological activity, and time. These factors work together to break down rocks and organic matter, contributing to soil development.