Fundamentals of the Physical Environment

Fundamentals of the Physical Environment has established itself as a highly respected core introductory book for students of physical geography and the environmental sciences. A systems approach is taken to demonstrate how the various factors operating at Earth's surface can and do interact, and how landscape can be used to decipher them. The nature of the earth and its oceans, the main processes of geomorphology and key elements of ecosystems are all explained. The final section on specific environments usefully sets in context the physical processes and human impacts. The fourth edition has been extensively revised to incorporate current thinking and knowledge: chapter 1 incorporates a new section on the history and study of physical geography; chapter 9 on climate change has been updated and strengthened as has chapter 16 on the work of the wind; a completely new chapter on environmental change has also been added. The new edition now features over 450 colour diagrams and 150 colour photographs. Clearly written, well structured and with a host of informative colour diagrams and photographs, the text provides students with the necessary grounding in fundamental processes whilst linking these to their impact on human society and their application to the science of the environment. Specific Features Include: Superb illustrations: 437 four colour figures; 153 four colour photographs Glossary of terms and key words highlighted throughout the text Learning Outcomes Themed boxes highlight: processes, systems, applications, new developments and human impacts Annotated references to journal and book further reading in each chapter Chapter summaries and key points Relevant web resources (to be added) Online diagrams importable into PowerPoint for overheadsSmithson, Peter is the author of 'Fundamentals of the Physical Environment', published 2002 under ISBN 9780415232944 and ISBN 0415232945.