The physical geography processes

The physical geography processes discussed in class and in your text are not only found in exotic
locations, but also in our own immediate environment. Being able to recognize physical processes
in the landscape is an important goal in this course.
In this assignment, you will practice your skills of geographic observation and apply concepts and
topics that you have learned in any component of GEOG 101 Physical Geography to describe the
physical features, landforms, and processes. To better achieve this goal, I would like to hear
from you, in writing, about your favorite landform or a fascinating place you have visited. In your
day-to-day life and in your travels, you have likely been intrigued by interesting landscapes,
landforms, weather patterns, etc. in your surroundings. An understanding of Physical Geography
allows us to appreciate these phenomena in a different way, as we begin to understand the
processes that create the features that we see. Whether it be a magnificent canyon with layers upon
layers of striations, or rain that falls but never quite reaches the ground, Physical Geography is
everywhere.
Remember – the purpose of your photo essay is to illustrate and describe the unique physical
features and processes. Don’t take a picture of dew and say “It’s humid”. I know that, why did the
dew form & what is it telling us?
If you have no idea which unique physical feature or landform to pick, think about a place you have
been where you were amazed at the natural physical surroundings. Think about a place in which
you wanted to know more about how the landform came to be! If in doubt, please ask your
instructor.
Topics

1. Earth/Sun Relationships (Declination of the sun) – For example, you can take a photograph
   of something with shadows and explain why and how the shadow length will vary throughout
   the year. Please note that this concept is not the same as day length.
2. Humidity – Either high or low humidity. Also explain what humidity is.
3. Temperature Inversion Layer OR Lifting Condensation Level (LCL) – The inversion layer
   (temperature increases with height) is unpredictable, bring your camera with you when you
   are out and about. LCL is common at times (e.g., clouds are formed) when inversions are not.
4. Rocks – Identify the rock type, how it formed why you classified it as such. It would be better if
   you used exposed bedrock where you can actually touch it as that will aid in the identification
   process.
5. Atmospheric Lifting Mechanisms – There are four types; orographic lifting is easy is identify.
6. Weather – Describer the weather for a particular day – you might want to include newspaper
   or online weather information for that date. What were the contributing factors to that day’s
   weather?
7. Climate – Do not just take a picture of nice weather. What is our climate and how does the
   vegetation reflect this? No palm tree or oak or cactus pictures for this or #8. I want to see the
   whole landscape.
8. Climate Inappropriate – What vegetation/landscaping is NOT appropriate for our climate and
   why?