Geomorphic Processes

Water erosion, particularly through the action of rivers and streams, is the primary process responsible for the formation of deep, narrow canyons with steep sides.

An erg is a large, flat area of desert covered with wind-blown sand, often forming vast sand seas or dunes.

A wadi is a dry riverbed or valley that is typically found in desert regions, carrying water only during periods of heavy rainfall.

A playa is a temporary lake that forms in a desert region after heavy rainfall, often occupying a low-lying area with poor drainage.

A canyon is a deep, narrow gorge with steep sides, typically formed by the erosion of a river over a long period of time.

A sabkha is a large, flat area of desert covered with salt deposits, often formed by the evaporation of seawater or groundwater.

Interstellar erosion is the process by which interstellar dust grains are destroyed by collisions with other particles.

Transportation is the process by which sediment is transported from one place to another.

Sea caves are formed by the erosion of rock by the action of waves, creating cavities and tunnels along coastlines.

Glacier caves are formed by the erosion of rock by the movement of a glacier, creating tunnels and chambers within the ice.

Eolian caves are formed by the erosion of rock by the action of wind, creating cavities and tunnels in soft rock formations.

Fluvial caves are formed by the erosion of rock by the action of water, creating tunnels and chambers along river courses.

Bacterial caves are formed by the erosion of rock by the action of bacteria, creating cavities and tunnels in limestone and other soluble rocks.

Glacial recession refers to the process of glacier and ice cap melting and retreat, characterized by the reduction in glacier mass and extent.

Calving refers to the process of ice loss from the edges of glaciers and ice caps, where large chunks of ice break off and fall into the ocean or a lake.