Geomorphic Processes Test - 2

Gravity besides being a directional force activating all downslope movements of matter also causes stresses on the earth's materials. Indirect gravitational stresses activate wave and tide induced currents and winds. Without gravity and gradients, there would be no mobility, and hence no erosion, transportation and deposition are possible. So, gravitational stresses are as important as the other geomorphic processes. 

Endogenic forces are those internal forces that derive their strength from the earth’s interior. The forces which act in the interior of the earth are called Endogenic forces.

Examples: mountain building forces, continent building forces, earthquakes, volcanism, etc.

Soil erosion is a natural process that occurs when the top layer of soil is displaced or removed by the actions of wind, water, or gravity. This process can result in the formation of sloping surfaces on Earth materials such as soil, rocks, and sediment.

Debris avalanche is a type of mass movement that involves the rapid flow of a mixture of rock, soil, and other debris down a steep slope. This type of mass movement can be classified under the category of rapid flow mass movements.

Expansion of salts depends on temperature and their thermal properties. 

Weathering can be defined as:

(a) Mechanical disintegration of rocks.

(b) Disintegration and deformation of rocks with the help of climatic factors.

(c) Chemical decomposition of rocks.

Weathering is an important process in the formation of soils.

The erosion and transportation of earth materials is brought about by wind, running water, glaciers, waves and ground water. Of these, the first three agents are controlled by climatic conditions.

Meso fauna plays a crucial role in soil aeration. By burrowing into the soil, feeding on organic matter, and facilitating nutrient cycling, these organisms help to create a healthy soil ecosystem that supports plant growth and other soil organisms.

A soil becomes mature when all soil-forming processes act for a sufficiently long time developing a profile. Soils developing from recently deposited alluvium or glacial till are considered young and they exhibit no horizons or only poorly developed horizons.