Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography, 8th Edition

Among the most highly regarded in physical geography, Robert Christopherson’s bestselling texts are known for meticulous attention to detail, currency, accuracy, rich integration of climate change science, and strong multimedia program. Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography, Eighth Edition is organized around the natural flow of energy, materials, and information, presenting subjects in the same sequence in which they occur in nature—an organic, holistic approach that is unique in this discipline. Each chapter also includes strong learning tools and a structured learning path, with Key Learning Concepts presented at the start of the chapter, Key Learning Concepts Review at the end of the chapter, and Critical Thinking questions integrated throughout. Offering current examples and modern science within a one-of-a-kind Earth systems organization, Christopherson combines student-friendly writing, outstanding art, and a strong multimedia program for a truly unique physical geography experience. The Eighth Edition is available with MasteringGeography™; the Mastering platform is the most effective and widely used online tutorial, homework, and assessment system for the sciences.

1 Essentials of Geography

PART I
The Energy-Atmosphere System
2 Solar Energy to Earth and the Seasons
3 Earth’s Modern Atmosphere
4 Atmosphere and Surface Energy Balances
5 Global Temperatures
6 Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulations
 
PART II
The Water, Weather, and Climate Systems
7 Water and Atmospheric Moisture
8 Weather
9 Water Resources
10 Global Climate Systems
 
PART III
The Earth-Atmosphere Interface
11 The Dynamic Planet
12 Tectonics, Earthquakes, and Volcanism
13 Weathering, Karst Landscapes, and Mass Movement
14 River Systems and Landforms
15 Eolian Processes and Arid Landscapes
16 The Oceans, Coastal Processes, and Landforms
17 Glacial and Periglacial Processes and Landforms
 
PART IV
Soils, Ecosystems, and Biomes
18 The Geography of Soils
19 Ecosystem Essentials
20 Terrestrial Biomes
21 Earth and the Human Denominator