The Science of Geography

1
The Science of Geography

• Geography is
• methods, not just a body of knowledge
• holistic
• eclectic

2
Geography is

• The science that studies the relationships among
• natural systems,
• geographic areas,
• societies,
• cultural activities,
• and the interdependence of all of these over
  space.

3
Physical Geography is

• The spatial analysis of all the physical elements
  and processes that make up the environment.

4
Figure 1.2
5

• Physical geographers use scientific methods

Figure 1
6
Earth Systems Concepts

• System an ordered, interrelated set of things
  their attributes, linked by flows of energy
  matter, that is distinct from the surrounding
  environment  
• Open systems have inputs and outputs of energy
  and matter
• System feedback when outputs influence
  continuing system outputs via feedback loops
• System equilibrium when rates of inputs and
  outputs are equal and amounts of energy and
  matter in storage are fairly constant

7
Figure 1.3
8
Global Effects of Mount Pinatubo
Figure 1.5
9
Early Development of Physical Geography

• Aristotle (384-322 BC)
• Earth is a sphere, not flat
• objects fall towards a common center
• Apparent configuration of stars ? with movement
  to the south or north

10
Eratosthenes estimated Earths circumference in
247 B.C.
Figure 1.9