📘 Geography Optional – Paper I
Page 1 – Geomorphology (Fundamentals)
Q1. Explain the concept of Uniformitarianism. (10 Marks)
Introduction: Proposed by James Hutton, Uniformitarianism states that “The present is the key to the past.”
Core: Geological processes operating today operated similarly in the past. It opposes Catastrophism.
Conclusion: Forms the foundation of modern geomorphology.
Q2. Critically examine Davis’ Cycle of Erosion. (15 Marks)
Introduction: Proposed by W.M. Davis in 1899 explaining landscape evolution.
- Youth: Steep slopes, V-shaped valleys
- Maturity: Valley widening, lateral erosion
- Old Age: Peneplain formation
Criticism: Assumes tectonic stability, ignores climate variability.
Conclusion: Foundational but theoretical.
Q3. Compare Davis and Penck’s theories. (15 Marks)
| Davis | Penck |
|---|---|
| Time-based stages | Slope replacement concept |
| Sequential development | Simultaneous uplift & erosion |
Q4. Explain Plate Tectonics Theory. (20 Marks)
Introduction: Modern theory explaining continental drift & ocean floor spreading.
- Lithosphere divided into plates
- Divergent, Convergent, Transform boundaries
- Explains earthquakes & mountain building
Indian Context: Himalayas formed by Indo-Eurasian collision.
Q5. What is Isostasy? Explain Airy & Pratt Models. (15 Marks)
Definition: Gravitational equilibrium between crust and mantle.
- Airy: Variable thickness, uniform density
- Pratt: Variable density, uniform thickness
Q6. Dynamic Equilibrium in Geomorphology. (10 Marks)
Proposed by Hack. Landforms maintain balance between uplift and erosion without fixed stages.
Q7. Types of Weathering. (10 Marks)
- Physical
- Chemical
- Biological
Q8. Mass Movements. (10 Marks)
Falls, Slides, Flows caused by gravity, rainfall, earthquakes.
Q9. Formation of River Terraces. (15 Marks)
Formed due to rejuvenation or climatic changes. Indicates past river levels.
Q10. Concept of Peneplain. (10 Marks)
Nearly level land surface formed after prolonged erosion, associated with Davis model.
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