Book Description

Geology and Landscape Evolution: General Principles Applied to the United States, Third Edition is an accessible text that balances interdisciplinary theory and applications within the physical geography, geology, geomorphology and climatology of the United States. The vast diversity of terrain and landscape across the United States makes this an ideal tool for geoscientists worldwide who research the country's geological and landscape evolution. The book provides an explanation of how landscape forms and how it evolves. This edition is fully updated with 3 additional sections: Geologic and Tectonic Processes and Provinces; Surface Processes and Provinces; and Compressional Mountain Systems. Rather than limiting the coverage specifically to tectonics or to the origin and evolution of rocks with little regard for the actual landscape beyond general desert, river, and glacial features, this book concentrates specifically on the origin of the landscape itself, with specific and exhaustive references and examples from across the United States. The book goes on to apply those concepts to specific examples throughout the United States, making it a valuable resource for understanding theoretical geological concepts through a practical lens. - Presents the complexities of physical geography, geology, geomorphology and climatology of the United States through an interdisciplinary, highly accessible approach - Offers hundreds of figures, maps and photographs that capture the systematic interaction of land, rock, rivers, glaciers, global wind patterns and climate, including Google Earth images - Provides a thorough assessment of the logic, rationale, and tools required to understand how to interpret landscape and the geological history of the Earth - Features exercises that conclude each chapter, aiding in the retention of key concepts - Includes 3 new sections and 8 additional chapters, as well as major updates to chapters throughout