Process Geomorphology:  by Dale F. Ritter, R. Craig Kochel, Jerry R. Miller
652 pages, $107.95 list
1-57766-669-0
978-1-57766-669-1
Instructor's Resources: Figures and Tables available
Process Geomorphology
Fifth Edition
The twenty-first century offers distinct challenges to the geosciences. Today’s geomorphologist must interact with and decipher problems that face hydrologists, engineers, geologists, pedologists, foresters, and many others. The bond that unites geomorphology with so many diverse disciplines is the common need to understand the processes of surface mechanics, which is exceedingly important as we struggle to comprehend the impacts of climate changes, tectonic events, and their effects on our physical environment.

While maintaining the introductory yet applied focus of previous editions, the authors have mined the most current research and data for the fifth edition. A wealth of new photos and figures augment and add depth to each field, providing an expansive base for students to build upon. A detailed bibliography enhances the further study of any topic of interest.
Reactions
“A fine textbook. We have needed a book like this for geomorph. What I like most is the excellent set of graphics.” — Edward H. Davis, Emory & Henry College

“I am pleased with the clarity with which concepts are presented and like the updates.” — A. Stewart, St. Lawrence University

“Having used Process Geomorphology in the past, I intend to return to it for all of my future sections. It is really the only viable, modern, and up-to-date text suitable for undergraduates.” — Richard H. Bailey, Northeastern University

“An excellent textbook and now a classic. This is my current #1 candidate for next fall semester’s textbook.” — Daniel Dugas, New Mexico State University

“Extremely comprehensive and up to date. The book is also well illustrated. I can’t imagine there is a geomorphology course taught at the upper-intermediate to advanced level that would not use this text. It has worked well for me when I have adopted it in the past and it is reasonably priced.” — John Ridge, Tufts University

“I’ve always had a good experience using this textbook and will continue with the latest edition. The digital figures are especially useful for lectures.” Frank Heitmuller, University of Southern Mississippi

“I have been using this for years. The new edition is better than ever!” — R. Laurence Davis, University of New Haven
Table of Contents
1. Process Geomorphology: An Introduction
Introduction / The Basics of Process Geomorphology / Summary

2. Internal Forces and Climate
Introduction / The Endogenic Effect / Climatic Geomorphology / Summary

3. Chemical Weathering and Soils
Introduction / Decomposition / Soils / Summary

4. Physical Weathering, Mass Movement, and Slopes
Introduction / Physical Weathering / Physical Properties of Unconsolidated Debris / Mass Movements of Slope Materials / Slope Profiles / Summary

5. The Drainage Basin—Development, Morphometry, and Hydrology
Introduction / Hillslope Hydrology and Runoff Generation / Initiation of Channels and the Drainage Network / Basin Hydrology / Basin Denudation / Summary

6. Fluvial Processes
Introduction / Flow in Open Channels / Erosion, Transport, and Deposition / Channel Morphology / Channel Patterns / Rivers, Equilibrium, and Time / Summary

7. Fluvial Landforms
Introduction / Floodplains / Fluvial Terraces / The Piedmont Environment: Fans and Pediments / Deltas / Summary

8. Wind Processes and Landforms
Introduction / The Resisting Environment / The Driving Force / Entrainment and Transportation / Deposits and Features / Environmental Considerations / Summary

9. Glaciers and Glacial Mechanics
Introduction / Glacial Origins and Types / The Mass Balance / The Movement of Glaciers / Ice Structures / Summary

10. Glacial Erosion, Deposition, and Landforms
Introduction / Erosional Processes and Features / Deposits and Depositional Features / Summary

11. Periglacial Processes and Landforms
Introduction / Permafrost and Ground Ice / Periglacial Processes / Periglacial Landforms / Landforms Associated with Permafrost / Environmental and Engineering Considerations / Summary

12. Karst—Processes and Landforms
Introduction / Karst Processes and the Controlling Factors / Karst Hydrology / Surficial Landforms / Limestone Caves / Summary

13. Coastal Processes and Landforms
Introduction / Coastal Processes / Beaches / Coastal Topography / Shoreline Change / Barrier Islands / Summary