What does climate zone 4 mean? Climatic zones of Russia
Physiography
The first “stem” branch (subsystem) in the system geographical sciences forms physical geography, representing natural wing of this system. There are many definitions of physical geography, sometimes differing in shades of formulation, and sometimes more significantly. Let us present here the definition proposed by N. I. Mikhailov, which seems to us one of the most successful: physical geography is the science of the geographical shell of the Earth, its composition, structure, features of formation and development, spatial differentiation.
ABOUT internal structure Physical geography was written by many scientists. Despite a number of disagreements, for the most part they still agree that as part of physical geography should be distinguished:
1) general physical geography,
2) regional physical geography,
3) branch physical and geographical sciences.
General physical geography(many, but not all physical geographers identify it with general geography) represents fundamental physical-geographical science that forms the main conceptual apparatus physical geography. She deals with the study of patterns of structure, functioning, dynamics and evolution geographic envelope Earth, studying common problems territorial differentiation (zoning, azonality, natural areas different ranks) of this shell. In addition, the task of general physical geography includes general taxonomy, classification, typology and taxonomy of territorial physical-geographical units.
General physical geography often includes questions theories of physical-geographical zoning and general theoretical issues of landscape science, which studies complex natural and natural-anthropogenic geosystems - landscapes as parts of the geographical envelope of the Earth. It usually includes paleogeography - science about the patterns of development of this shell, about the history of interaction between nature and man, about the landscapes of the geological past.
Regional physical geography studies specific areas, features of their nature, natural resources, development processes and formation trends. Wherein This refers to territorial units of different taxonomic ranks - from countries to small areas, groups and types of landscapes, including microlandscapes and elementary landscapes. ON THE. Gvozdetsky, along with regional landscape science, includes regional physical geography and physical-geographical regional studies.
Let's now move on to a brief description branch physical and geographical sciences, isolated in separate group. These sciences are united one object of study - geographic envelope, however their subjects of study are different and cover any one of the structural parts or sides of this shell, its individual components. It is more or less common to distinguish eight such branch sciences.
Firstly, This geomorphology, which studies historically developing terrain earth's surface, explores the appearance of land relief and seabed, origin, age, structural features, development and distribution of one or another of its forms, the impact on the formation of the relief of endogenous and exogenous processes, as well as anthropogenic factors. Geomorphology is divided into general and regional. In addition, it isolated structural, climatic, dynamic, applied geomorphology, marine geomorphology. In the field of geomorphology, the merits of such domestic scientists as academicians K.K. Markov, I.P. Gerasimov, professors S.Ya. Edelyptein, A.A. Borzov, I.S. Shchukin, Yu.A. Meshcheryakov are especially great.
Secondly, This climatology -- the science of climate, its formation, geographical distribution and changes over time. Climatology is usually divided into general climatology and climatography. The main tasks of climatology are to study atmospheric processes over a long period, generalize the results of measurements of weather parameters, which makes it possible to judge climatic regime . Among the most prominent domestic climatologists, following A.I. Voeikov, academicians L.S. Berg, M.I. Budyko, professors B.P. Alisova, B.L. Dzerdzeevsky, F.F. Crushed.
Third, This land hydrology, which explores the patterns of processes and phenomena occurring in natural waters sushi, formation water balance and runoff, the structure of river flows and other water bodies, channel and coastal processes, thermal and ice regime, chemical composition of water, etc.. According to the objects of study, land hydrology is divided into river hydrology, limnology (lake science), swamp science. Among the many domestic scientists in this field, let’s name V.G. Glushkova, S.D. Muraveysky, B.A. Appollov, M.I. Lvovich, A.B. Avakyan.
Fourth, This oceanology - the science of natural processes in the World Ocean, which considers this ocean simultaneously both as part of the hydrosphere and as an integral planetary natural object . the main task oceanology - identification of general patterns of the nature of the ocean as a whole. But at the same time it turns on several scientific directions, each of which studies a specific element of the nature of the ocean. These are ocean physics, ocean chemistry, ocean geology, ocean biology. Among the creators of domestic oceanology are academicians Yu.M. Shokalsky, V.V. Shuleikina, K.K. Markova, L.A. Zenkevich, corresponding members. AN V.G. Bogorova, A.S. Monin, professors N.N. Zubova, O.K. Leontyeva and others.
Fifthly, This glaciology, which emerged from land hydrology as an independent science in the middle of the 20th century. This science of natural ice on the Earth's surface, in the atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere. Glaciology studies the regime and dynamics of their development, interactions with the environment, and the role of ice in the development of the Earth. Snow-glacial resources, movement of glaciers, ice fields, avalanches, glacier fluctuations and the history of glaciation are also studied. According to the main subjects of study, glaciology is divided into glaciation, snow science, avalanche science, ice science of reservoirs and watercourses and paleoglaciology. Among domestic scientists, academicians V.M. have special merits in this field of knowledge. Kotlyakov, professor M.V. Tronov, G.K. Tushinsky, G.D. Richter.
At sixth, This geocryology(permafrost science) - science of frozen soils and rocks, about the processes of their formation, the history of development and conditions of existence, as well as phenomena associated with the processes of freezing and thawing of frozen strata.
Seventh, This soil geography, which arose in Russia back in late XIX century. Geography of soils studies the patterns of formation and spatial distribution of soils. It is divided into general geography of soils, including the study of soil formation factors and patterns of their distribution, and regional geography of soils, the purpose of which is to describe, map and study the spatial distribution of soils various parts earth's surface. The “mighty group” of domestic soil scientists, following V.V. Dokuchaev, includes academicians M.D. Glinka, L.I. Prasolov, B.B. Polynov, I.P. Gerasimov, corresponding member. RAS V.A. Kovda, professors S.S. Neustruev, V.M. Friedland, M.A. Glazovskaya, B.G. Rozanov, N.N. Rozov, S.V. Zones, V.O. Targulyan and etc.
Geography is a fascinating subject scientific direction, studying the earth's surface, oceans and seas, the environment and ecosystems, and the interaction between human society and the environment. The word geography literally translated from ancient Greek means “description of the earth.” Below is general definition geography term:
"Geography is a system of scientific knowledge that studies physical features Earth and environment, including the influence of human activities on these factors, and vice versa. The subject also covers patterns of population distribution, land use, availability and production."
Scientists who study geography are known as geographers. These people are doing research. natural environment our planet and human society. Although cartographers of the ancient world were known as geographers, today this is a relatively distinct specialization. Geographers tend to focus on two main areas of geographical study: physical geography and human geography.
History of the development of geography
The term "geography" was coined by the ancient Greeks, who not only created detailed maps of the surrounding area, but also explained the differences between people and natural landscapes in different places Earth. Over time, the rich heritage of geography has taken a fateful journey into the brightest Islamic minds. The Islamic Golden Age witnessed amazing achievements in the field of geographical sciences. Islamic geographers became famous for their innovative discoveries. New lands were explored and the first grid base for the map system was developed. Chinese civilization also contributed instrumentally to the development of early geography. The compass, developed by the Chinese, was used by explorers to explore the unknown.
A new chapter in the history of science begins with the period of great geographical discoveries, a period coinciding with the European Renaissance. IN European world a new interest in geography arose. Marco Polo - Venetian merchant and traveler led this new era research. Commercial interests in establishing trade contacts with the rich civilizations of Asia, such as China and India, became the main impetus for travel in those times. Europeans advanced in all directions, discovering new lands, unique cultures and... The enormous potential of geography to shape the future was recognized human civilization and in the 18th century, it was introduced as a core discipline at university level. Relying on geographical knowledge, people began to discover new ways and means to overcome the difficulties generated by nature, which led to the prosperity of human civilization in all corners of the world. In the 20th century, aerial photography, satellite technology, computerized systems, and complex software radically changed science and made the study of geography more complete and detailed.
Branches of geography
Geography can be considered as an interdisciplinary science. The subject includes a transdisciplinary approach, which allows you to observe and analyze objects in Earth space, as well as develop ways to solve problems based on this analysis. The discipline of geography can be divided into several areas of scientific research. The primary classification of geography divides the approach to the subject into two broad categories: physical geography and social geography. economical geography.
Physical geography
defined as the branch of geography that includes the study natural objects and phenomena (or processes) on Earth.
Physical geography is further subdivided into the following branches:
- Geomorphology: deals with the study of topographic and bathymetric features of the Earth's surface. Science helps clarify various aspects related to landforms, such as their history and dynamics. Geomorphology also tries to predict future changes physical characteristics external appearance of the Earth.
- Glaciology: a branch of physical geography that studies the relationship between the dynamics of glaciers and their impact on the ecology of the planet. Thus, glaciology involves the study of the cryosphere, including alpine and continental glaciers. Glacial geology, snow hydrology, etc. are some subdisciplines of glaciological studies.
- Oceanography: Since the oceans contain 96.5% of all the water on Earth, the specialized discipline of oceanography is dedicated to their study. The science of oceanography includes geological oceanography (the study of the geological aspects of the ocean floor, seamounts, volcanoes, etc.), biological oceanography (the study of marine flora, fauna and ecosystems of the ocean), chemical oceanography (the study of chemical composition sea waters and their impact on marine forms life), physical oceanography (the study of ocean movements such as waves, currents, tides).
- Hydrology: another important branch of physical geography, dealing with the study of the properties and dynamics of the movement of water in relation to land. She explores the planet's rivers, lakes, glaciers and underground aquifers. Hydrology studies the continuous movement of water from one source to another, above and below the Earth's surface, through.
- Soil Science: branch of science that studies Various types soils in their natural environment on the surface of the Earth. Helps to collect information and knowledge about the process of formation (soil formation), composition, texture and classification of soils.
- : an indispensable discipline of physical geography that studies the distribution of living organisms in the geographic space of the planet. She also studies the distribution of species during geological periods time. Each geographic region has its own unique ecosystems, and biogeography explores and explains their relationship with physical and geographical features. There are different branches of biogeography: zoogeography ( geographical distribution animals), phytogeography (geographical distribution of plants), island biogeography (study of factors influencing individual ecosystems), etc.
- Paleogeography: branch of physical geography that studies geographical features at different times geological history Earth. Science helps geographers gain information about continental positions and plate tectonics, determined through the study of paleomagnetism and fossil records.
- Climatology: Scientific research climate, as well as the most important section of geographical research in modern world. Considers all aspects related to micro or local climate, as well as macro or global climate. Climatology also includes the study of the influence of human society on climate, and vice versa.
- Meteorology: studies weather conditions, atmospheric processes and phenomena that influence local and global weather.
- Environmental Geography: explores the interactions between people (individuals or society) and their natural environment from a spatial perspective.
- Coastal geography: a specialized field of physical geography that also includes the study of socio-economic geography. It is devoted to the study of the dynamic interaction between the coastal zone and the sea. Physical processes, forming coasts and the influence of the sea on landscape changes. The study also seeks to understand the impacts of coastal communities on coastal topography and ecosystems.
- Quaternary geology: a highly specialized section of physical geography that studies Quaternary period Earth ( geographical history Earth, covering the last 2.6 million years). This allows geographers to learn about environmental changes that occurred in the planet's recent past. Knowledge is used as a tool to predict future changes in the world's environment.
- Geomatics: the technical branch of physical geography that involves the collection, analysis, interpretation and storage of data about the earth's surface.
- Landscape ecology: a science that studies the influence of various landscapes of the Earth on the ecological processes and ecosystems of the planet.
Human Geography
Human geography, or socio-economic geography, is a branch of geography that studies the impact of the environment on human society and the earth's surface, as well as the impact of anthropogenic activities on the planet. Socio-economic geography is focused on the study of the most developed creatures of the world from an evolutionary point of view - people and their environment.
This branch of geography is divided into various disciplines depending on the focus of the research:
- Geography population: studies how nature determines the distribution, growth, composition, lifestyle, and migration of human populations.
- Historical geography: explains the change and development of geographical phenomena over time. Although this section is considered as a branch of human geography, it also focuses on certain aspects of physical geography. Historical geography attempts to understand why, how, and when places and regions of the Earth change and the impact they have on human society.
- Cultural Geography: explores how and why cultural preferences and norms change across spaces and places. Thus, it studies the spatial variations of human cultures, including religion, language, livelihood choices, politics, etc.
- Economical geography: the most important section of socio-economic geography, covering the study of location, distribution and organization economic activity person in geographical space.
- Political geography: examines the political boundaries of countries around the world and the divisions between countries. She is also studying how spatial structures influence political functions, and vice versa. Military geography, electoral geography, geopolitics are some of the subdisciplines of political geography.
- Geography of health: explores the impact geographical location on people's health and well-being.
- Social geography: studies the quality and standard of living of the world's human population and attempts to understand how and why such standards vary across places and spaces.
- Geography settlements: is engaged in the study of urban and rural settlements, economic structure, infrastructure, etc., as well as the dynamics of human settlement in relation to space and time.
- Geography of animals: studies animal world Earth and the interdependence between people and animals.
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We are all familiar with such a multifaceted science as geography. It combines so much that scientists decided to divide it into several separate sciences with narrower specializations. And the most interesting, in my opinion, is the section on physical geography. After all, he is the one who studies those areas of the Earth on which we live. But do we know everything about physical geography? Let me share with you my knowledge about it.
What is physical geography
WITH scientific point From a perspective, physical geography is a science whose task is to study the geographical shell of our planet, its structure, functioning and dynamics. And by this geographical envelope we mean such parts of the Earth as the earth's crust, biosphere, troposphere, stratosphere and hydrosphere. Between all these parts there is a constant exchange of energy and.
certain substances
It is also impossible not to mention that physical geography is a branch of not only geography, but also natural science.
Being also a very extensive science, physical geography is divided into two main sections - these are general geography And landscape science.
Geography is the foundation of physical geography, it focuses its study precisely on the geographical envelope.
A landscape science deals, as its name suggests, with earthly landscapes, their detailed structure, functioning and changes.
Returning again to physical geography, it is worth noting that it is inextricably related to economic geography. This connection is due to the following phenomena:
- any production is always built and developed in certain natural conditions;
- the use of resources created by nature is the basis for any production;
- We must not forget that the location and activities of these same industries, as a rule, have an impact (often negative) on the geographical environment. And knowledge of physical geography about preventing (or correcting) these dangerous changes is simply necessary.
As you can see from my story, a science such as physical geography is no less important than its basis - geography. She inextricably linked with her. And I hope that from my story you learned something new for yourself. Good luck on your travels!
Physical geography is the science of the structure of the Earth's shell. This discipline is the basis of the natural sciences. What shells of the Earth does physical geography study? She studies the location of various geographical objects, the shell as a whole natural phenomenon. In addition, regional differences in the Earth's shell are explored. This science will intervene the whole complex other sciences that study the geography of our planet.
Considering that the diversity of phase and chemical composition is quite large and unusually complex, all parts earth's crust They are constantly connected with each other and continuously exchange various substances, as well as the necessary energy. It is this process that makes it possible to distinguish the geographical shell as a specific material in the system of our planet; scientists explain the set of processes that take place inside as a special process of the movement of matter.
What kind of science is physical geography?
Already for a long time physical geography studies the nature of the earth's surface. The only direction, over time, thanks to the differentiation of some sciences and the development of human horizons, questions began to appear, the answers to which could only be obtained by expanding the scientific spectrum. Thus, geophysics began to study inanimate nature, and geography fully fits into the study of all living things on planet Earth. Physical geography is a science that studies both sides, that is, living and inanimate nature, the shell of the Earth, as well as its influence on human life.
History of the development of science
Throughout the development of science, scientists accumulated facts, materials and everything necessary for the study to be successful. Systematization of materials helped to facilitate work and draw certain conclusions. This is what played very important role in the further development of physical geography as a science. What does general physical geography study? In the middle of the 19th century there was a very active period of development of this direction. It consisted in the constant study of various natural processes that occur in the geographical environment and are caused by various geographical phenomena. The study of these phenomena was justified by requests practical knowledge, a deeper study and explanation of some of the patterns that began to occur in the nature of planet Earth. Thus, in order to know the nature of certain phenomena, it was necessary to study certain components of the landscape. Thanks to this need, the development of other geographical sciences followed. Thus, a whole complex of sciences appeared that acted as related ones.
Objectives of physical geography
Over time, paleography began to be related to physical geography. Some scientists include geography and soil science in this system. Evolution scientific knowledge, ideas and discoveries examines the entire history of physical geography. Thus, one can trace one’s internal and external Relations, practical use patterns. So the task of physical geography became the study of regional differences in the Earth’s shell and specific factors manifestations of general and local patterns that correspond to certain theories. General and local patterns are interconnected, closely combined and continuously interact.
Geography of Russia
What does Russian physical geography study? Land resources, minerals, soil, relief changes - all this is included in the list of studies. Our country is located on three huge flat layers. Russia is rich in huge mineral deposits. In different parts of it you can find iron ore, chalk, oil, gas, copper, titanium, mercury. What does Russian physical geography study? Important topics research areas are the country's climate and water resources.
Differentiation of science
The spectrum of physical and geographical sciences is based on certain materials and general patterns, which are studied by physical geography. There was definitely differentiation positive influence on the development of science, but at the same time there were problems in the special physical and geographical sciences, their developments were not enough, because not all natural phenomena, some facts were overused, which made it difficult further development in interdependent natural processes. Lately the tendency to balance differentiation is proceeding in a rather positive way, are being investigated comprehensive research, a certain synthesis is carried out. General physical geography uses a number of related industries in its processes natural sciences. At the same time, other sciences arise that help in the future to reveal more and more new knowledge. In addition to all this, the histories of science are preserved, with their knowledge and experiments. Thanks to this, scientific progress continues to move forward.
Physical Geography and Related Sciences
Special sciences in the field of physical geography, in turn, depend on generally accepted laws. They, of course, have a progressive meaning, but the problem is that there are certain boundaries that do not allow one to achieve greater knowledge. This is what makes lasting progress difficult, for which it is necessary to discover new sciences. In many particular physical and geographical sciences, chemical and biochemical methods, processes and objects are most often used; this becomes the moving force. Physical geography connects these sciences and enriches them necessary materials And teaching methods. This is necessary to solve practical problems, which gives certain forecasts of changes in the natural environment under certain human actions. In addition, the above sciences connect the issue as a whole, which gives rise to a whole series of new studies. But what does the physical geography of continents and oceans study?
Most of the earth's surface is covered with water. Only 29% are continents and islands. There are six continents on Earth, only 6% are islands.
Connection with economic geography
Physical geography has a fairly close connection with economic sciences and many of their branches. This is explained by the fact that in specific natural conditions, economic geography, one way or another, influences them. Another important production condition is the use natural resources, and this is precisely what hurts some economic aspects. Economic development and industrial production, modifies the geography, the shell of the earth's surface, sometimes there is even an increase in the surface; such spontaneous changes should be reflected in research. Also, such changes affect the state of nature; all these points must be studied and explained. In light of all of the above, the study of the geographical envelope can be successful only if we understand the conditioned way in which human society influences the nature of the planet.
Physical Geography Concepts
An interesting fact is the aspects outlined in theoretical foundations physical geography, they began to take shape at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries. Then the basic concepts of this science were formed. The first concept suggests that geographical shells have always been and will be integral and inseparable. All their components cooperate with each other, sharing energy and necessary substances. The second concept says that scientists in the field of geography explain the moment of zonation as the most important manifestation of the territorial differentiation of the planet’s shell. The study of this science in local patterns, as well as local manifestations, has great value for zoning.
Periodic law of zoning
Differentiation is quite difficult geographical system, particles are interconnected, spatial changes occur, the magnitude of which should not interfere with the balance of the earth's surface. This can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as annual rainfall, the relationship between them and much, much more. Surface balance globe closely related to land boundaries. If you look at different thermal zones, the conditions will be different, depending on the characteristics of the landscape. This pattern even got its name - the periodic law. geographical zonation. This is what physical geography studies. The concept of this law has some general concepts and values that can be applied to a large number physical and geographical processes. These processes come down to determining a rational balance that is optimal for vegetation.
If we combine all these areas, we can conclude that science plays a very important role as a method of analysis natural relationships and implementation of new knowledge. The methodology of physical geography has not yet been sufficiently improved. Therefore, in the coming years, science will also develop rapidly; fresh ideas and other things are required. New industries may also emerge.
There are many mysteries and interesting phenomena in nature, which physical geography deals with explaining. Why is it hot in the tropics and extremely cold at the poles? Why in internal parts Do the continents receive less precipitation than the coasts? How and why does fog form? Science is trying to find answers to all these questions.
What does physical geography study? What is its structure? What directions can be identified in its modern research? This will be discussed in the article.
What does physical geography study? Definition of science
Physical geography is one of the natural sciences, and is part general geography. She deals with numerous problems of the structure and functioning of the so-called Earth.
What does physical geography study today? The range of interests of this science includes the structure, formation, and dynamics of functioning of various natural-territorial complexes. The most important task physical geography on modern stage is search rational ways use natural conditions and human resources.
Physical geography originated in the 4th century BC. But only after the major expeditions and voyages of Columbus, Magellan, and Marco Polo, humanity realized the importance of this science. It does not lose its relevance even today, when, it would seem, our planet has already been sufficiently studied.
Objects of physical geography and directions of its research
Among the main objects of study of this science, the following should be highlighted:
- geological structure;
- relief;
- inland waters;
- climate of the territories;
- inland waters;
- flora and fauna (in particular, their distribution on the surface of the planet);
- landscapes;
- natural areas etc.
The main areas of research in physical geography include:
- patterns of formation and development of the geographical shell of the Earth, natural territorial complexes;
- theoretical as well as practical problems geophysics and geochemistry of landscapes;
- problems of landscape zoning of territories, as well as landscape typology;
- methods and principles of studying the geographical envelope and its individual components.
System of physical and geographical sciences
Physical geography is usually divided into three large sections. This:
1. General geoscience (studies general patterns in the structure and development of the planet’s geographic envelope).
2. Physical geography of continents and oceans (studies the natural features of the world's largest natural complexes - continents and oceans).
3. Landscape science (studies geosystems at the regional or local level).
In general, the system of physical and geographical sciences includes a number of different scientific disciplines. Among them are geomorphology, climatology, meteorology, hydrology and hydrography, paleogeography, oceanology, soil science, biogeography, glaciology and others.
Physical geography as an academic discipline
Where and how is physical geography studied? Beginner course This science is taught in schools (as a compulsory subject), as well as in colleges and universities. In particular, the school studies the general physical geography of the world, the geography of continents and oceans, as well as the physical geography of Russia.
Geography faculties and departments have been established in many universities in Russia and Europe. In developed countries, interest in this science is only growing. Studying physical geography at the university is not only lectures and seminars, but also interesting practical lessons, exciting excursions and hikes, field research.
Graduates of geography departments find work in the most different areas and industries. And this is not only work “in the field”, searching for new oil fields or conducting meteorological observations. Tourism, pedagogy, production of goods, cartography - these are far from full list areas of activity in which a geographer graduate can find employment.
Finally…
Now you know what physical geography studies. The objects of research for this science are: relief and soils, climate and minerals, vegetable world, landscapes and natural areas of the continents.
The structure of physical geography is represented by three large sections. These are general geography, geography of continents and oceans, and landscape science.