The Dictionary of Physical Geography

This fully-revised comprehensive fourth edition covers the whole field of physical geography including climate and atmosphere, geomorphology, biogeography, hydrology, oceans, Quaternary, environmental change, soils, remote sensing and GIS. This new edition reflects developments in the discipline during the last decade, with the expert advisory group providing an international perspective on the discipline of physical geography.

Over 2000 entries that are self-contained or cross-referenced include 200 that are new to this edition, over 400 that are rewritten and updated, and new supporting references and additional recommended reading in many others. Entries removed from the last edition are available in the online resource. This volume is the essential reference point for students of physical geography and related environmental disciplines, lecturers and interested individuals alike. List of Contributors vi

Preface to the Fourth Edition x

Preface to the First Edition xi

Preface to the Second Edition xii

Preface to the Third Edition xiii

Acknowledgments xiv

About the Companion Website xvi

Introduction xvii

THE DICTIONARY OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY 1

Index 581

David Thomas is Professor of Geography at the University of Oxford, a Fellow of Hertford College, and is Honorary Professor at the Universities of Cape Town and Witwatersrand in South Africa. He is a geomorphologist who works in contemporary as well as Quaternary contexts, especially in drylands and deserts. He has authored almost 200 papers in refereed international journals and other volumes, and has authored or edited 10 books. This fully-revised comprehensive fourth edition covers the whole field of physical geography including climate and atmosphere, geomorphology, biogeography, hydrology, oceans, Quaternary, environmental change, soils, remote sensing and GIS. This new edition reflects developments in the discipline during the last decade, with the expert advisory group providing an international perspective on the discipline of physical geography.

Over 2000 entries that are self-contained or cross-referenced include 200 that are new to this edition, over 400 that are rewritten and updated, and new supporting references and additional recommended reading in many others. Entries removed from the last edition are available in the online resource. This volume is the essential reference point for students of physical geography and related environmental disciplines, lecturers and interested individuals alike.