An unrivalled, comprehensive introduction to the natural processes in our world. Introduction to Physical Geography and the Environment, 4th edition, by Joseph Holden, is a highly respected and comprehensive text that introduces you to the major topics of physical geography. The book is well illustrated to demonstrate the workings of the physical environment and help you grasp core principles. Its focus on the inter-linkages between processes, places, and environments provides you with a deep understanding of natural, physical processes in our world.
Now in its 4th edition, the text has been thoroughly updated to contain all the latest research which the authors have compiled, providing an unrivalled source of rich information from around the world. This edition is also supported by a range of digital learning resources including extended and annotated further reading lists for each chapter, multiple-choice questions, fieldwork exercises, and interactive models to enhance your learning experience.
Containing the latest available information with a host of resources to aid your learning, this text is excellent for both undergraduate and postgraduate study in the field of physical geography.
This title also has a Companion Website.
Preface to the fourth edition List of contributors Editor's acknowledgements Part I: The role of physical geography
Chapter 1. Approaching physical geography
Part II: Continent and oceans
Chapter 2. Earth geology and tectonics
Chapter 3. Oceans
Part III: Past, present and future climate and weather
Chapter 4. The Pleistocene
Chapter 5. The Holocene
Chapter 6. Atmospheric processes
Chapter 7. Contemporary climate change
Chapter 8. Global climate and weather
Chapter 9. Regional and local climates
Part IV: Biogeography and ecology
Chapter 10. The biosphere
Chapter 11. Ecosystem processes
Chapter 12. Freshwater ecosystems
Chapter 13. Vegetation and climate change
Part V: Geomorphology and hydrology
Chapter 14. Weathering
Chapter 15. Slope processes and landform evolution
Chapter 16. Sediments and sedimentation
Chapter 17. Soils
Chapter 18. Catchment hydrology
Chapter 19. Fluvial geomorphology and river management
Chapter 20. Solutes and water quality
Chapter 21. Drylands
Chapter 22. Coasts
Chapter 23. Glaciers and ice sheets
Chapter 24. Permafrost and periglaciation
Part VI: Monitoring and management
Chapter 25. Monitoring environmental change
Chapter 26. Dealing with hazards and environmental change