Physical geography

Physical Map of the World

Physical geography (also know as geosystems or physiography) is a subfield of geography that focuses on the systematic study of patterns and processes within the hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. It aims to understand the physical layout of the Earth, its weather and global flora and fauna patterns. Many areas of physical geography make use of geology, particularly in the study of weathering and erosion. The geology of other planets is discussed at geological features of the solar system.

Physical geography as a scientific discipline is usually contrasted with and complemented by its sister science Human geography.

Fields of physical geography

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See also

*Continent
*Desert
*Earth's atmosphere
*Ecology
*Environmental science
*Environmental studies
*Geostatistics
*Island
*Ocean
*Oceanography
*River
*Sea
*Soil
*Timeline of geography, paleontology
*Weathering

Fields of physical geography	Related fields
Geomorphology	Landforms
Hydrology	Water cycle, Water resources
Glaciology	Glacier
Biogeography	Species
Climatology	Climate
Pedology	Soil
Coastal/Marine studies	Coasts
Oceanography	Oceans and seas
Geodesy	Gravity, Magnetic field
Palaeogeography	Continental drift
Environmental geography	Environmental science
Landscape ecology	Nitrogen cycle

Related Articles • Physical Geography Overview - All About Physical Geography • Physical Geography and Cultural Geography • Geography 101 - Geography Overview • Cultural Geography - An Overview of Cultural Geography • All About Geography

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