Geosystems : an introduction to physical geography / Robert W. Christopherson.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


1. Essentials of geography
The science of geography
A spherical planet
Location and time on earth
etc...

Part one : The Energy- atmosphere system
2. Solar energy to earth
Solar system: structure and formation
Solar energy from sun to earth
Energy at the top of the atmosphere
etc...

3. Earth's modern atmosphere
Atmospheric structure and function
Variable atmospheric components
etc...

4. Atmosphere and surface energy balances
Energy balance of the atmosphere
Earth's surface energy balance
etc...

5. World temperatures
Principal temperature controls
Earth's temperature patterns
Future temperature trends
etc...

6. Atmospheric and oceanic circulations
Wind essentials
Driving forces within the atmosphere
Atmospheric patterns of motion
etc...

Part two: The water weather and climate system
7. Water and the atmospheric moisture
Beginnings
Global oceans and seas
Unique properties of water
etc...

8. Weather
Atmospheric stability
Air masses
Atmospheric lifting mechanisms
etc...

9. Weather balance and water resources
The water-balance concept
Ground water resources
Distribution of streams
etc...
10. Global climate systems
Climate system component
Classification of climatic regions
Future climate patterns
etc...
Part three: The earth's atmospheric interface
11. The dynamic planet
12. Tectonics and volcanism
13. Weathering karst landscapes and mass movements
14.River systems and landforms
15. Eolian processes and Arid landscapes
16.Coastal processes and landforms
17. Glacial and periglacial processes and landforms

Part four: Soils, Ecosystems, and Biomes
18. The geography of soils
19. Ecosystem essentials
20. Terrestrial Biomes
21. The human denominator
Appendices