Physical Geography
Physical geography focuses on geography as an Earth science (and is sometimes called Earth System Science).
Physical geography is a branch of geography that focuses on the study of the natural features and processes of the Earth’s surface. It includes the examination of landforms, climate, vegetation, soils, and water resources. Physical geographers use a range of scientific methods and tools to analyze and understand the complex interactions between the Earth’s physical systems.
Learn about the different branches of geography that fall under the physical geography category: climatology, geomorphology, biogeography, and more.
Urbanization is Shortening the Legs of Western Fence Lizards
Western fence lizards have adapted to manmade surfaces in urban areas by developing shorter limbs and toes.
Most Abundant Landbird in the United States and Canada
The American robin has the largest population among all landbirds in the United States and Canada.
Which States Have the Highest Percentage of Water Area?
Water shapes U.S. states' geography and ecosystems. Which states have the highest and lowest percentages of area covered by perennial water?
Why Do Squirrels Lie Flat?
There are several reasons for why squirrels will lie flat on the ground, a patio railing, or tree branch.
How Mapping Mangrove Species Can Help With Coastal Erosion Mitigation
Species-specific mangrove maps aid conservation by targeting protection efforts and resources against storm surges and coastal erosion.
Witch’s Broom in Trees: Dense Clump of Leaves and Branches
Witch's broom affects trees like birch, spruce, and pine, causing dense twig and leaf clusters due to pathogens, parasites, and environmental stressors.
Using Satellite Data to Map Extreme Heat
As heatwaves grow more frequent and severe, scientists use remote sensing and Earth system models to monitor and forecast extreme heat.
Venezuela Becomes the First Country to Lose its Glaciers
Venezuela became the first country to lose all of its glaciers as the last remaining ice on Pico Humboldt shrank to less than two hectares.
Understanding Fast Ice in Polar Ecosystems and Climate Dynamics
Fast ice, found in both polar regions, is sea ice that attaches to coasts, icebergs, ice shelves, or the ocean floor.
Mapping Coral Reef Health with Sound
Scientists used artificial intelligence and passive acoustic monitoring to assess coral reef health by analyzing the sounds of the ocean.
A Guide to the Geography of U.S. National Parks
Find out the answers to geography trivia questions and more in this article about the geography of U.S. National Parks.
Nunataks: Glacial Islands
Nunataks are isolated mountain peaks visible above ice sheets in polar and high-altitude regions.
What is an Ice Arch?
An ice arch forms when sea ice buckles under pressure, creating a natural arch-shaped structure in polar regions, often blocking the movement of ice.
Polynyas: Natural Openings in Polar Ice
Explore the geography of polynyas, unique open water areas in polar ice, and learn about their formation, ecological impact, and role in climate dynamics.
Finding Penguin Colonies from Space
Satellite observations help researchers track penguin populations in some of the most remote regions of Antarctica.
When Rivers Become Ice Roads
During the cold winter months, parts of Canada's Mackenzie River become a ice road that trucks up to 22,000 pounds can navigate.
Will Cool Air Pooling Protect Some Forests from Climate Change?
Researchers looked at the link between cool air pooling and cold-adapted forest composition.
Forecasting Phytoclimatesย
A study of 135,153 vascular plant species predicts that by 2070, 33-68% of land on Earth will experience significant phytoclimate changes.
The World’s Smallest Mountain Range
Surrounded by flat farmland, the Sutter Buttes are an isolated volcanic landform often described as the world's smallest mountain range.
Human-Driven Extinction of Birds
Researchers using models and historical records estimate that up to 11% of all bird species have gone extinct since the Late Pleistocene.
This Bird is Not the Only Crested Jay West of the Rocky Mountains
Since the 1960s, blue jays have steadily expanded their range beyond the Rocky Mountains into western North America.
Weather Forecasting Using Artificial Intelligence
GraphCast is a Google DeepMind effort that uses deep learning to improve medium-range weather forecasting.
Measuring Tree Height with a Pair of Satellites
Using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data from two satellites, researchers developed a method for estimating tree canopy height.
Using Animals to Collect Weather Data
Attaching sensors to wildlife could give scientists fine-scale weather data from the habitats animals move through.
How Sea Level Rise Will Affect Salt Marshes
Researchers have calculated that about 90 percent of salt marshes are under threat from rising sea levels predicted to occur by the year 2100.
American Chestnut: the Struggle to Save the โRedwood of the Eastโ
Scientists and conservationists are working to rescue the American Chestnut from going completely extinct.