Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
1.2. DISCIPLINARY CONSIDERATIONS
Periglacial geomorphology currently maintains a bridging position between geomorphol-
ogy, geocryology, and Quaternary science. Here, the disciplinary overlaps are considered.
They are illustrated schematically in Figure 1.3.
1.2.1. The Growth of Geocryology
Geocryology, or permafrost science, is one of the cryospheric sciences. Clearly, the cry-
olithosphere (i.e. perennially and seasonally cryotic - that is, below 0 °C, - ground) is
central, and the cryohydrosphere (i.e. snow cover, glaciers, and river, lake, and sea ice)
less central, to periglacial geomorphology.
For several reasons, the relations between geocryology and periglacial geomorphology
are complex. First, for many years, permafrost studies were conducted in North America
and the former Soviet Union (Russia) not only in relative isolation to each other but also
in isolation from mainstream (geographical) geomorphology. Second, Russian and Chinese
Figure 1.3.
Diagram illustrating the disciplinary interactions and overlap of periglacial geomor-
phology. (A) The relations between physical geography, geomorphology, and periglacial geomor-
phology. (B) The relation between periglacial geomorphology and geocryology and the interactions
of these disciplines with Quaternary science and other natural sciences. (C) Periglacial geomor-
phology and its overlap with the cryospheric sciences. Note: all the disciplinary boundaries are
porous and those marked by broken lines are particularly so.
