CBSE Class 11 Geography: Chapter 6 - Geomorphic Processes NCERT Solutions

Reviewed by NCERT Help Editorial Team · Updated on 29 Jul 2026

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 11 PDF

This chapter delves into the fundamental concepts of Geomorphic Processes, crucial for understanding Physical Geography. The NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Geography, Chapter 6, provide detailed explanations of various geomorphic agents and processes. Key topics covered include gradational processes like erosion and deposition, the role of weathering in breaking down rocks and influencing biodiversity and soil formation, and different types of mass movements, both rapid and slow. The solutions also explore the dynamic interplay between endogenic (internal) and exogenic (external) forces shaping the Earth's surface, and how exogenic processes are powered by solar energy. These solutions are designed to help students grasp complex geological concepts, clarify doubts, and prepare effectively for their examinations by offering step-by-step explanations and clear definitions.

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Quick info

Board	CBSE
Class	Class 11
Subject	Fundamental of Physical Geography
Session	2026
Language	English
Type	NCERT Solutions
Chapter	Chapter 6

Chapter summary

Chapter 6 of the Class 11 Fundamental of Physical Geography NCERT Solutions focuses on Geomorphic Processes. It explains the agents that shape the Earth's surface, including weathering, mass movements, and erosion. The solutions detail the classification of mass movements, the role of weathering in soil formation and biodiversity, and the distinction between endogenic and exogenic forces. It also clarifies how solar energy drives exogenic processes. This chapter provides a foundational understanding of the dynamic geological forces at play on our planet.

Learning outcomes

Understand the concept of gradational processes like erosion and deposition.
Explain the different types of weathering and their impact on rock disintegration.
Identify and differentiate between various types of mass movements.
Analyze the role of weathering in the formation of soil and biodiversity.
Differentiate between endogenic and exogenic geomorphic processes.
Explain the primary energy source for exogenic geomorphic processes.

Topics covered

Paper topics

Geomorphic Processes
Gradational Processes
Erosion
Deposition
Weathering
Hydration
Mass Movements
Creep
Flow
Slide
Fall
Exogenic Processes
Endogenic Processes
Solar Energy

Important topics

Weathering and its role in soil formation
Classification of Mass Movements (Rapid vs. Slow)
Distinction between Exogenic and Endogenic Processes
The concept of Gradation (Erosion and Deposition)
Energy sources for Geomorphic Processes

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Questions and Solutions

Multiple choice questions

(i) Which one of the following processes is a gradational process?

(a) Deposition

(b) Diastrophism

(d) Erosion

Solution: Gradational processes are those that tend to reduce the relief variations on the Earth's surface. Erosion is the process of wearing away and removing surface materials, which is a key component of gradation. Diastrophism and volcanism are typically considered endogenic processes that create relief, while deposition is the opposite of erosion, involving the laying down of materials.

Answer: (d) Erosion

(ii) Which one of the following materials is affected by the hydration process?

(a) Granite

(b) Clay

(d) Salts

Solution: Hydration is a type of weathering where water is absorbed by minerals, causing them to swell and weaken. Clay minerals have a molecular structure that readily absorbs water, leading to expansion and the breakdown of rocks containing them. While salts can also undergo hydration, clay is a more significant material affected in rock weathering contexts.

Answer: (b) Clay

(iii) Debris avalanche can be included in the category of:

(a) Landslides

(b) Slow flow mass movements

(d) Subsidence

Solution: A debris avalanche is a type of mass movement characterized by the rapid flow of rock debris, soil, and other materials down a steep slope. This high speed places it firmly in the category of rapid flow mass movements, distinct from slower processes or other types of downslope movement like landslides (which can vary in speed) or subsidence.

Answer: (c) Rapid flow mass movements

Answer the following questions in about 30 words

(i) It is weathering that is responsible for biodiversity on the earth. How?

Solution: Weathering breaks down rocks into smaller fragments, forming the parent material for soil. The depth and composition of this weathered material (weathering mantle) are crucial for the growth of vegetation, including forests, which in turn support diverse ecosystems and biodiversity.

(i) What are mass movements that are real rapid and perceptible? List.

Solution: Mass movements that are rapid and perceptible are downslope transfers of rock and debris under the direct influence of gravity, occurring at a noticeable speed. These include various types of flows (like debris avalanches), slides (rock slides, debris slides), and falls (rock falls).

(ii) What are the various mobile and mighty exogenic geomorphic agents and what is the prime job they perform?

Solution: The primary mobile and mighty exogenic geomorphic agents are weathering, mass movements, erosion, transportation, and deposition. Their prime job is to continuously modify the Earth's surface, breaking down existing landforms (degradation) and building up new ones (aggradation), thereby bringing about geomorphic changes.

(iii) Is weathering essential as a pre-requisite in the formation of soils? Why?

Solution: Yes, weathering is an essential pre-requisite for soil formation. It breaks down rocks into smaller particles, creating the loose, fragmented material known as regolith. This weathered material serves as the primary input from which soil develops over time through further physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Answer the following questions in about 150 words

(i) "Our earth is a playfield for two opposing groups of geomorphic processes." Discuss.

Solution: The Earth's surface is constantly shaped by two main groups of geomorphic processes: endogenic and exogenic. Endogenic processes originate from within the Earth, driven by internal heat, and are responsible for creating major landforms through forces like tectonic plate movement, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. These are often described as land-building or land-molding forces. In contrast, exogenic processes operate on the Earth's surface, powered primarily by solar energy and gravity. These include weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition, which work to wear down the landforms created by endogenic forces (degradation) and fill up basins. While endogenic forces build up the topography, exogenic forces wear it down, creating a dynamic balance and continuous change on the planet's surface.

(ii) Exogenic geomorphic processes derive their ultimate energy from the sun's heat. Explain.

Solution: Exogenic geomorphic processes, such as weathering, erosion, transportation, and deposition, are fundamentally driven by energy originating from outside the Earth. The primary source of this energy is the sun's heat. Solar radiation drives atmospheric circulation, leading to winds and precipitation (rain, snow), which are the main agents of erosion and transportation. Solar energy also causes temperature variations, contributing to physical weathering. While gravity is crucial for mass movements and the downslope transport of materials, the initial energy to overcome resistance and set these processes in motion is largely derived from solar heating of the atmosphere and surface.

Common mistakes

Confusing gradational processes with other geological processes.
Not clearly distinguishing between rapid and slow mass movements.
Underestimating the role of weathering in soil formation.
Failing to identify the ultimate energy source for exogenic processes.

Revision tips

Focus on understanding the definitions and examples of each geomorphic process.
Create a table to compare and contrast different types of mass movements.
Draw diagrams to illustrate the concepts of weathering and erosion.
Relate the processes discussed to real-world examples of landforms.
Review the distinction between internal (endogenic) and external (exogenic) forces.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Which of the following is considered a gradational process that wears down the Earth's surface?

Q2. The process of hydration, which involves the absorption of water, primarily affects which type of material?

Q3. A debris avalanche, characterized by rapid movement of rock and soil fragments down a slope, falls under which category of mass movement?

Q4. How does weathering contribute to biodiversity on Earth?

Q5. Which of the following are considered the primary mobile and mighty exogenic geomorphic agents?

Frequently asked questions

What are geomorphic processes?

Geomorphic processes are natural phenomena that shape the Earth's surface. They include weathering, mass movements, erosion, transportation, and deposition, driven by forces originating within the Earth (endogenic) or on its surface (exogenic).

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks in situ (in place) through physical, chemical, or biological means. Erosion involves the removal and transportation of these weathered materials by agents like water, wind, or ice.

Can you explain the types of mass movements?

Mass movements are the downslope transfer of rock and debris under gravity. They are broadly categorized into slow movements (like creep) and rapid movements (like flows, slides, and falls), depending on their speed and nature.

How do exogenic processes get their energy?

Exogenic geomorphic processes, which operate on the Earth's surface, derive their ultimate energy primarily from the sun's heat. Gravity also plays a significant role in driving these processes, especially mass movements.

Why is weathering important for soil formation?

Weathering is essential for soil formation because it breaks down rocks into smaller particles, creating the parent material. The depth and characteristics of this weathered material directly influence the development and fertility of the soil.

What is the significance of Chapter 6 for Class 11 Geography students?

Chapter 6 provides a foundational understanding of the dynamic forces that shape our planet's landscapes. Mastering these concepts is crucial for comprehending landforms, geological cycles, and environmental changes studied in physical geography.

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