Fluvial Processes in Geomorphology: Second Edition

by Luna B Leopold, M. Gordon Wolman, John P. Miller

This excellent text is a pioneering work in the study of landform development under processes associated with running water. Its primary emphasis is on subjects that were the focus of the authors' studies in both field and laboratory. Part I deals with the process of change in the evolving landscape. Part II explores process and form, and Part III, the effects of time.
In Part I, the relation of geomorphology to field problems is analyzed in studies of a mountain block in a semiarid climate, a meandering river cut into bedrock, and benches along a sea coast. Part Two contains studies of weathering, climate, and such denudational processes as flooding and erosion. Here, too, are examinations of the drainage basin as a geomorphic unit, water and sediment in channels, channel form and process, and hillslope characteristics and processes.
In Part III, the authors cover geochronology, drainage pattern evolution, channel changes with time, and the evolution of hillslopes. A new Foreword by Dr. Ellen Wohl situates the text within the evolution of the science along with its continuing relevance today as a primary resource. Plus, two appendixes will help readers convert units and equivalents, and identify symbols and nomenclature.

Genres: Science

544 pages, Paperback

Published September 16, 2020

Reviews

[Ryan Clements · Rating 4 out of 5]

Woof. It’s a textbook for sure.. not for fun reading. But it’s a great foundational text on geomorphology before the current approaches developed around the mid-90s. After taking a class from one of those foundational researchers, this all has a great purpose for understanding the origins of current thought within fluvial geomorphology!