NCERT Class 11 Geography Fundamental of Physical Geography: Chapter 5 — Geomorphic Processes
This chapter, 'Geomorphic Processes,' from NCERT's Fundamental of Physical Geography for Class 11, delves into the dynamic nature of the Earth's surface. It explains how internal (endogenic) and external (exogenic) forces continuously shape landforms. Endogenic forces build up the Earth's crust, while exogenic processes, driven by solar energy, wear down elevations and fill depressions through weathering, erosion, and deposition. The chapter highlights the sensitivity of the Earth's surface and the crucial need for humans to understand these processes to use resources effectively without disturbing the environmental balance. Understanding how landforms are created and modified is essential for preserving the planet for future generations, especially given the detrimental effects of human activities. The text introduces key concepts like degradation and aggradation, emphasizing the interplay between these forces in creating the Earth's varied topography.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | Geography |
| Book | Fundamental of Physical Geography |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Geomorphic Processes |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 558 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the difference between endogenic and exogenic forces.
- Define geomorphic processes and their role in shaping the Earth's surface.
- Explain weathering, erosion, and deposition as key exogenic processes.
- Recognize the dynamic nature of the Earth's crust.
- Appreciate the impact of human activities on geomorphic processes and the environment.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Endogenic forces | Internal forces originating from within the Earth that cause physical stresses and chemical actions on earth materials. |
| Exogenic forces | External forces originating from outside the Earth, primarily driven by solar energy, that act on the Earth's surface. |
| Geomorphic processes | Processes that cause physical stresses and chemical actions on earth materials and shape the surface of the earth. |
| Weathering | The disintegration and decomposition of rocks and minerals at or near the Earth's surface. |
| Erosion | The process of wearing away and transporting Earth materials by agents like water, wind, and ice. |
| Deposition | The process by which eroded materials are dropped or settled in a new location. |
| Degradation | The process of wearing down of relief or elevations on the Earth's surface. |
| Aggradation | The process of filling up of basins or depressions on the Earth's surface. |
| Gradation | The phenomenon of wearing down of relief variations of the surface of the Earth through erosion. |
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Practice questions
- What are the two main types of forces that shape the Earth's surface? Answer: The two main types of forces are endogenic forces (internal) and exogenic forces (external).
- Define geomorphic processes. Answer: Geomorphic processes are the endogenic and exogenic forces causing physical stresses and chemical actions on earth materials and shaping the Earth's surface.
- What is the primary difference between degradation and aggradation? Answer: Degradation is the wearing down of landforms, while aggradation is the building up or filling of depressions.
- What drives exogenic forces? Answer: Exogenic forces are primarily driven by energy from sunlight.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Which type of forces are known as land-building forces?
Explanation: Endogenic forces originate from within the Earth and are responsible for building up the crust and creating landforms.
Q2. The process of wearing down of relief variations of the Earth's surface is called:
Explanation: Gradation encompasses the processes of wearing down (degradation) and filling up (aggradation) of the Earth's surface relief.
Q3. Which of the following is an example of an exogenic process?
Explanation: Erosion is a process driven by external agents like water, wind, and ice, making it an exogenic process.
Q4. What is the primary source of energy for exogenic processes?
Explanation: Exogenic processes are fundamentally driven by the energy received from the sun.
Q5. The phenomenon of filling up of basins or depressions on the Earth's surface is known as:
Explanation: Aggradation refers to the process of accumulating materials and filling up low-lying areas on the Earth's surface.
Frequently asked questions
What are geomorphic processes?
Geomorphic processes are the endogenic and exogenic forces that cause physical and chemical changes to Earth materials, shaping the planet's surface.
What is the difference between endogenic and exogenic forces?
Endogenic forces originate from within the Earth and build up landforms, while exogenic forces originate from outside (like solar energy) and wear down landforms.
What is gradation in geography?
Gradation refers to the process of leveling the Earth's surface through erosion (wearing down) and deposition (filling up).
Why is it important to understand geomorphic processes?
Understanding these processes helps us use Earth's resources effectively without causing long-term environmental damage and preserves the planet for the future.
What role does solar energy play in shaping the Earth's surface?
Solar energy is the primary driver for exogenic processes like weathering, erosion, and deposition, which modify the Earth's surface.
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NCERT Class 11 Geography — Fundamental of Physical Geography — Chapter 5 — Geomorphic Processes. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.