– Use the record of the past to predict the future
What complicates the study of pattern-process?
1. Multiple driving variables
• Driving variables are most directly responsible for the observed patterns. • They have to be identified, but are not always readily apparent or easily separated from each other
GEO 130 Earth’s Physical EnvironPhysical Geography
• • • • • • • • • • • Define physical geography Explain how we study physical geography List several types of models Describe and define models List the factors that complicate the study of pattern and process and provide examples Give examples of how scale influence the perception of pattern and process Explain how contingent historic events complicate the interpretation of pattern and process Explain the difference between non-linear and linear change Explain why models are limited in describing patterns in the environment Define and give examples of positive and negative feedback Define/explain: steady state, dynamic equilibrium, phase shifts, and transient states
What are the types of models?
• Graphical conceptual models
Types of models
• Maps
Types of models
• Data visualizations and simulations
– Mathematical in essence, but enhanced through computational power of the computer.
What is Physical Geography?
• Integrated study of three subdisciplines – Climatology – Biogeography – Geomorphology
What is Physical Geography?
• Includes the role of humans and their influence on natural processes
Types of models
• Dynamical models
– Use field-derived conditions to model the behavior of a phenomena – Can be used to predict or forecast the future
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Types of models
• Dynamical models can also be used to hindcast the past and study events that have already happened
Types of models
• Statistical models
• We document pattern and process
We use models to study pattern and process
• Models are a simplified, often idealized representation of reality.
– Intent of a model is to recreate patterns by capturing the underlying explanatory processes – Your role is to learn models, recognize they are idealized, and try to identify why they are incomplete.
Why study physical geography?
• To understand human-environment interaction, you need to understand how the non-human world works.
How do we do physical geography?
Why study physical geography?
• The natural world is as complex as the human world
– Consider these facets of the Earth’s surface
• Its extent (size) and resolution (detail) • History and time since origin (4.5 billion years)